Anıtkaya Caravanserai (Eğret Caravanserai)

Eğret Caravanserai takes its name from Eğret, the former name of the village it was located in for many years; the village was later renamed Anıtkaya. The structure, estimated to have been built between 1370-1380 during the time of Germiyanoğlu Süleyman Bey, was located on the Afyon-Kütahya road, one of the most important trade routes of its era.

Built of cut stone, the structure has a three-aisled plan. The central aisle is wider compared to the two side aisles. Arched vaults placed between two rows of elephant-foot piers form the load-bearing system of the structure and reflect the typical features of caravanserai architecture. With these characteristics, the building is considered a characteristic example of late Turkish caravanserais in Anatolia.

The most suitable period to visit Anıtkaya Caravanserai is during the spring and autumn months. During these seasons, village roads are passable, and the weather offers very suitable conditions for a long walk or photography. In winter, snow and cold weather can make transportation on village roads difficult. In summer, going early in the morning is advantageous both to avoid the heat and to explore the structure in a quieter environment.

The caravanserai is located in Anıtkaya Village, on the highway leading from Afyonkarahisar city center towards Kütahya. Its distance from the city center is approximately 20-25 kilometers. Transportation by private car is the most practical method; the village roads are stabilized and easily passable with a standard vehicle. Public transportation options are quite limited; it is necessary to inquire about current services from Afyonkarahisar bus station towards Anıtkaya. Searching for Anıtkaya Köyü, Afyonkarahisar in navigation applications is sufficient.

The cut-stone facade and original arch details of the caravanserai provide a strong foundation for architectural photography. Early morning light coming from the east accentuates the texture on the stone surfaces and creates a sense of depth. If you can enter the interior of the structure, the light filtering through the vaulted arches can also create interesting shots. The calm atmosphere of the village and the surrounding rural texture are also suitable for wide-angle shots that show the structure in its context. It is recommended to choose early morning or late afternoon, considering the light conditions before your visit.

It is known that the structure has undergone some repair interventions in the past, and these interventions have led to discussions regarding authenticity. Practices such as covering the entrance stairs with granite and plastering the stone walls with cement have caused public criticism. This indicates that the current appearance of the structure may have partially deviated from its original state.

Since the caravanserai is located within a village settlement, it is important to be respectful to the villagers and keep the environment clean during your visit. It may be beneficial to contact the local administration or the village headman in advance for interior access.

You can combine Anıtkaya Caravanserai with other historical structures in Afyonkarahisar to create a meaningful cultural route. The Afyonkarahisar Castle in the city center and the surrounding historical mosques and madrasahs are a natural part of this route. There are also other historical structures along the route towards Kütahya. It is possible to visit the caravanserai in the morning as part of a day trip and return to the city center in the afternoon to visit the museum and historical bazaar. Don't forget to add tasting Afyonkarahisar's famous sucuk (spicy sausage) and kaymak (clotted cream) to your itinerary.