Caravanserais as Symbols of Power in Seljuk Anatolia

Abstract

A BSTRACT A󰀀er the establishment of the Anatolian Seljuk state in Anatolia in the 12th century, Seljuk sultans placed special importance on the development of trade. In this context, the Seljuks conquered important ports, signed agreements with foreign trade agen-cies, introduced an insurance system for merchandise and founded caravanserais on different trade routes. e foundation of caravanserais, which were mostly donated by the members of Seljuk dynasty and affluent commanders, was probably the most sig-nificant improvement in this area. Medieval manuscript sources about these buildings contain some evidence of their donors’ financial and political status. Drawing on both medieval manuscript sources and the modern historiography of Anatolian Seljuk ar-chitecture, this study examines power relationships between the Seljuk ruling class and their thoughts on various features of caravanserai buildings.