Khan As'ad Pasha
Ottoman-era caravanserai in Damascus, Syria
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Khan As'ad Pasha (Arabic: خَان أَسْعَد بَاشَا, romanized: Khān ʾAsʿad Bāşā) is the largest caravanserai (khān) in the Old City of Damascus,[1] covering an area of 2,500 square metres (27,000 sq ft). Situated along Al-Buzuriyah Souq, it was built and named after As'ad Pasha al-Azm, the governor of Damascus, in 1751–52.[2] Khan As'ad Pasha has been described as one of the finest khans of Damascus,[3] and the most "ambitious" work of architecture in the city.[4]
| Khan As'ad Pasha | |
|---|---|
خَان أَسْعَد بَاشَا | |
| |
 Interactive map of the Khan As'ad Pasha area | |
Alternative names | As'ad Pasha al-Azm Khan |
General information | |
| Type | Caravanserai, museum |
Architectural style | Ottoman |
| Location | Damascus, Syria, Al-Buzuriyah Souq |
Construction started | 1751 |
Completed | 1752 |
| Renovated | 1990s |
| Client | As'ad Pasha al-'Azm |
| Technical details | |
| Floor count | 2 |
| Floor area | 2,500 square metres (27,000 sq ft) |
| Renovating team | |
| Awards | Aga Khan Award for Architecture |
Usage
Throughout the Ottoman era, it hosted caravans coming from Baghdad, Mosul, Aleppo, Beirut and elsewhere in the Middle East.[5] Rooms were allowed for renting by notable merchants of the time.[6]
Architecture
The design of the khan included eight small domes and one large central opening reminiscent of Persian architecture, while the eight domes reflect Shia tradition. The covered courtyard features a high ceiling height which helped provide protection from the climate during the hot summer and cold winter seasons.[6]
The restoration of the khān won the Aga Khan Award for Architecture.[7]
Gallery
The khān, 1836
Interior courtyard
Arches
