The Shah Abbasi Caravanserai, also known as Bisotun Caravanserai, is a prominent historical site in Kermanshah. Located in Bisotun Khaneh village, approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Kermanshah, the caravanserai lies in the cultural and historical area of Bisotun, directly in front of the famous Darius Relief on Bisotun Mountain, known as Farhad Tarash. This site remains a must-visit for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
The caravanserai was commissioned by Shah Abbas I of the Safavid dynasty. An inscription from Shah Suleiman I indicates that the construction was completed under his reign with assistance from Shaykh Ali Khan Zanganeh. Later, Naser al-Din Shah Qajar and Jafar Khan Kashani oversaw restorations to preserve the structure.
The Shah Abbasi Caravanserai is a spacious rectangular building measuring 60.83 meters long and 50.74 meters wide. Key architectural features include:
Corner Towers: Round towers on the west side and octagonal towers on the east.
Walls: Perimeter walls built with cut stones inside and out, and brick from the arches’ floor to the top.
Entrance Gate: Located on the south side, 3.50 meters wide, with seven arches on each side.
Covered Space: Inside the entrance, a transom arch leads to two porches with crescent arches, and staircases provide access to the roof.
Octagonal Area: A domed octagonal section with two porches, each containing three doors, connects to the main yard.
Caravanserai Yard: Six square rooms line each side, each with a paved porch. A hexagonal porch is located at one corner. Long stables are situated behind the rooms.
Opposite Structure: Across from the entrance lies a grand royal palace, adding historical significance to the site.
Visitors can explore Bisotun Caravanserai daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.. The site provides a fascinating glimpse into Safavid-era architecture, caravan trade routes, and historical preservation efforts.
For official information on the Bisotun Caravanserai and its historical significance within the Bisotun Complex, visit the UNESCO page to explore its inscriptions, reliefs, and Safavid-era heritage.
