Mahperi Hatun Kervansaray is a 1238 Seljuk-era caravanserai on the Tokat-Pazar road; today it has been restored and operates as a restaurant.
Mahperi Hatun Kervansaray is located at the 29th kilometer of the Tokat-Pazar road, approximately 1 kilometer from the Pazar district. The structure was built in 1238 by Mahperi Hatun, wife of Alaeddin Keykubad and mother of Giyaseddin Keyhusrev II. The monumental gates of the courtyard and enclosed section bear four-line inscriptions in Thuluth script. Both inscriptions record the same patron and construction date, with missing sections in one completed by the other.
The caravanserai consists of two sections: a summer section with colonnades around the courtyard and a winter section covered with a roof, divided into three parts in two rows. The roof structure has completely collapsed over time, but the main gate and outer walls have been preserved to the present day. Restoration work that began in 1999 continued intermittently until 2007. Its location on the historic road connecting Central Anatolia to the Black Sea demonstrates the structure's former importance in caravan traffic.
Today, the caravanserai operates as a restaurant following restoration by the Directorate General of Foundations. Visitors eat Tokat kebab and gozleme between the stone walls, and some enjoy tea with live music. Stone craftsmanship and historical atmosphere are frequently praised in reviews. One visitor noted that prices were high and ayran was not sold inside; it is advisable to confirm current prices before visiting.
Guide's Note
When to Visit
Since the caravanserai is an open-courtyard structure, it remains cool especially during summer months, and even during midday heat, visitors can sit in the shade inside. Spring and autumn provide softer light for both the road views and photographs of the monumental gate. Afternoon hours make the relief details of the gate more prominent with the sun's positioning.
How to Get There
Minibuses from Tokat center provide access to Pazar district. The caravanserai is located at the 29th kilometer of the Tokat-Pazar highway, approximately 1 km from the district center, right on the roadside. For those traveling by private vehicle, this is directly on the route to Ballica Cave; it can serve as a brief rest stop on your way to or from the cave.
Time to Allocate
Touring the structure itself takes 10-15 minutes. As one visitor noted, a quick stop is sufficient if you're passing through. If you sit down at the restaurant for a meal, this time can easily extend to 45 minutes to 1 hour. Combining it with a visit to Ballica Cave and making it part of the same day's itinerary is the most practical plan.
What to Eat
The caravanserai now operates as a restaurant, and Tokat kebab stands out most in reviews. Gozleme is also among preferred choices, found to be reasonably priced and delicious. One visitor mentioned that ayran was charged separately and overall prices were considered high. Checking the price list before sitting prevents surprises.
Photography Spots
The Thuluth script inscriptions on the monumental gate and courtyard colonnades are the most popular shots. Stone texture and arched passages create more prominent shadows in afternoon light. The restaurant's table arrangements are also framed with the historic walls; if there is live music in the evening, the interior ambiance can also be photographed.
Important Considerations
Although the structure has been largely restored, its roof covering is completely collapsed. Therefore, the original architecture must be largely understood from the courtyard walls and monumental gate. Restaurant prices are considered high by some visitors, so viewing the menu beforehand makes sense. There is no regular ramp for wheelchair access, and the stone ground may be uneven.
History and Architecture
The caravanserai is an example of Anatolian Seljuk period Sultan Hans group. Both the main gates of the square open courtyard and rectangular enclosed section are aligned on the northwest-southeast axis. The inscription on the entrance gate contains the title 'safvet-ed-dünya wa-d-din' used by Seljuk sultans' consorts of the period. The structure was built as a resting point providing accommodation services to caravans on the historic road connecting Central Anatolia to the Black Sea.
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