One of the most unique historical features of Turkey is its Hans (inns) or Keravansarays (caravan palaces). During the days of the ancient silk road, these hospitality venues were sometimes opulent locations frequented by merchants-traveling in groups for safety. They not only provided a place for overnight accommodation, but also for news exchange, storage depot, animal changes, communal worship, and market trade.
Hans were setup in Bursa during the time when Bursa was established as the capital of the Ottoman empire. The hans were usually named after the commodity that was traded within its walls such as the Rice Inn (Pirinç Han), the Silk Inn (İpek Han), and the Cocoon Inn (Koza Han). Bursa alone contains more than 16 hans.
One unique example of this historical architecture is Issız Han (The Deserted Inn) in Karacabey, Bursa, aptly named for its remote location near Uluabat Lake. This inn provided hospitality services to travelers along the Istanbul-Susurluk River-Uluabat Lake route. In 2008, it was restored to be a functional boutique hotel, offering nine rooms and a restaurant. The location is available for accommodation and for self-guided visits.
While we have not personally stayed at the hotel, we have visited several times and have enjoyed a glimpse back into the days and nights of the traveling caravans. During our last visit, the management was kind enough to let us look into some of the available rooms. Each was well equipped for two-person accommodation, with portable baby beds available for one small child. Accommodations for larger families might require multiple rooms.
Issız Han Hotel
Website: www.issizhan.com
Address: Gölkıyı Mahallesi (Köyü) No: 582
Karacabey/BURSA
Telephone: 0530 426 1394
Instagram: @issizhanotel
Sources and additional information can be found at these websites. Note: Some are in Turkish.
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