Bisotun Caravanserai Guide
Rest Stop Through Time: The Bisotun Caravanserai Guide
Step back in time at the Bisotun Caravanserai, a beautifully preserved roadside inn that once provided shelter and respite for travelers along the ancient Silk Road. Located near the famed Bisotun Inscription, this caravanserai offers a tangible connection to the bustling trade routes that crisscrossed Persia for centuries. It's a perfect complement to your visit to the inscription, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of merchants, pilgrims, and adventurers who traversed this historic landscape. The Bisotun Caravanserai was built during the Safavid era (16th-18th centuries), a period of great prosperity and artistic achievement in Persia. Caravanserais were strategically located along major trade routes, providing secure lodging, stables for animals, and facilities for storing goods. The Bisotun Caravanserai is a classic example of this architectural style, featuring a large central courtyard surrounded by rooms and arched gateways. Its sturdy construction and strategic location made it a vital link in the Silk Road network. Exploring the Bisotun Caravanserai allows you to imagine the sights and sounds of a bygone era. Wander through the courtyard, examine the intricate brickwork, and picture the caravans arriving after long journeys. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly associated with the caravanserai itself, you can find delicious local cuisine in the nearby town of Bisotun and Kermanshah. Enjoy traditional Persian dishes like *Khoresht-e Gheimeh* (a meat and lentil stew) and *Jujeh Kabab* (grilled chicken).
Transportation
The Bisotun Caravanserai is located near the Bisotun Inscription, making it easily accessible by car or taxi from Kermanshah. The drive takes approximately 30-45 minutes. From Kermanshah, you can take a taxi or a shared taxi (savari) heading towards Bisotun. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Bisotun Caravanserai site. It's located very close to the Bisotun Inscription.