Gelendost Ertokuş Hanı, Isparta'nın Eğirdir Gölü doğu kıyısında 13. Yüzyıldan kalan Selçuklu kervan yolunun taş kervansarayıdır. Sekizgen havuzlu avlusu ve mescit kalıntısıyla dikkat çekse de kapı çoğunlukla kilitli olduğundan içeriye giriş garanti değildir.
Ertokuş Han is also referred to in historical sources as Gelendost Han or Kudret Han. Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Eğirdir, it stands along the historic trade route that once connected Eğirdir to Konya. Built on behalf of Mübarizeddin Ertokuş, the structure is a testament to the extensive Seljuk-era trade network.
Laid out on a rectangular north-south plan, the caravanserai consists of an open courtyard and an enclosed shelter section. Entered via a pointed-arched portal on its southern facade, the courtyard is bordered along its eastern and western sides by semi-open spaces covered with pointed barrel vaults. During restoration work, the remains of an octagonal pool were uncovered at the center of the courtyard. The room in the southeastern corner, featuring a domed structure with corner squinches, was likely used as a prayer room (mescit). The covered northern section is divided into three naves by T-shaped piers; excavations revealed stone platforms between these piers.
Although structurally sound, the caravanserai does not receive regular maintenance. Many visitors report finding the gate locked and being unable to see the interior, while some note they could only peek into the courtyard from outside. Overgrown weeds and a lack of visitor facilities beyond a direction sign are frequently mentioned in visitor reviews. Nevertheless, the stone craftsmanship and impressive silhouette viewed from the exterior make it worth a quick roadside stop, especially for those traveling along the Eğirdir-Yalvaç route.
Guide's Note
When Was Ertokuş Han Built?
The caravanserai was built on behalf of the Seljuk commander Mübarizeddin Ertokuş. It is also referred to in historical sources as Gelendost Han, Kudret Han, and occasionally Dadil Han or Alaeddin Han. Its location along the historic trade route connecting Eğirdir to Konya highlights its role in the trade network of the era.
How to Get There
Located approximately 65 km from Isparta city center. Take the D-330 highway toward Gelendost to reach the Yeşilköy area, where the caravanserai is visible right by the roadside. Public transportation is not practical; traveling by private vehicle or as part of a custom tour between Eğirdir and Yalvaç is recommended.
How Long Does a Visit Take?
Since the likelihood of getting inside is low, visits are usually limited to viewing the exterior and taking photos. 15 to 30 minutes is sufficient. If you are spending the day around Lake Eğirdir, consider it a brief stop on your route.
Things to Know Before You Go
A frequent warning in online visitor reviews is that the main gate is usually locked and there is no staff present. While some visitors report being unable to enter at all, others mention managing to enter on days when part of the gate happened to be unlocked. Visitors have noted that textiles and equipment are stored inside, some rooms are dark, and there is a staircase leading to the roof; however, this does not represent a standard or safe visitor experience. Overgrown weeds during certain seasons are also frequently mentioned. To avoid disappointment, keep your expectations focused on viewing the exterior architecture.
Best Spots for Photography
The pointed-arched portal on the southern facade is the caravanserai's most photogenic feature. Wide shots taken from the roadside capture the impressive stone structure and its setting near Lake Eğirdir. The stone texture shows best under afternoon light.
Other Nearby Attractions
The shores of Lake Eğirdir and Eğirdir town center are close to the caravanserai and can easily be combined into a day trip. It also serves as a convenient roadside stop for travelers continuing toward Yalvaç. Historical mosques in Gelendost town center can be added to the same itinerary.
This content originates from neresigezilir.com.tr and may not be copied without permission.
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