Rüstem Pasha Caravanserai (Taşhan)

The structure was built in 1561 by Rüstem Pasha, the Grand Vizier of Suleiman the Magnificent. The inscription on the entrance gate states that the building was called a "ribat." Since Erzurum was a border city at that time, it served as a kind of outpost for raiding parties. As the borders extended to Tbilisi and the Caspian Sea, the caravanserai also took on the functions of an inn and marketplace. There are 32 rooms around the rectangular courtyard, two pointed-arch gates in the east-west direction, and a two-story plan. In the 1965 restoration, the western facade was extended forward, and the entrance was left cradle-vaulted.

Since the caravanserai is an enclosed structure, it can be visited regardless of weather conditions. Erzurum is very cold and snowy in winter; if you plan to walk around the city center, choosing May-September will be more comfortable. The bazaar is also more lively in the summer months.

The structure is located in the center of Erzurum, close to Cumhuriyet Street. It is within walking distance from most hotels in the city center. If you are coming from afar, you can easily reach it by city minibus lines or taxi. From Erzurum Airport, you can take a taxi or public bus to the center and then walk.

The area around Taşhan is considered the historical center of Erzurum. Nearby, there are restaurants serving local delicacies such as cağ kebabı and kadayıf dolması. It makes sense to combine a visit to the bedesten with other historical structures in the city center, such as the Twin Minaret Madrasa and the clock tower. All are close to each other.

Today, the caravanserai is primarily known for shops selling rosaries, rings, and necklaces made from Oltu stone. Comments frequently mention the rich variety of products and that some shopkeepers are helpful and open to discounts. However, it is also noted that prices are high and that there are quality issues, such as cracked stones, in some products. Before purchasing, always check the product by hand and hold it up to the light to look for cracks.

Prices in the shops within the bedesten can vary by vendor, so comparing a few shops is beneficial. Although some visitors complain about the shopkeepers' attitudes, the overall experience is mostly reported as positive. Asking about return conditions before payment is useful to avoid problems later.

The cradle-vaulted entrance on the western facade and the pointed-arch gates are good photo spots for those looking for architectural details. An upward-looking angle from the center of the courtyard shows the two-story portico row and stone craftsmanship together.