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This article was automatically translated from the original Turkish version.

Article

Çekereksu Hanı

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20171228110258128_Cekereksu Hani Resim14.jpg

Location

Yozgat Province

Kesikköprü Örencik Village

Bank of the Çekerek River

Construction Date(s)

1239–1240

Patron

Melike Mahperi Hatun

Plan Type

Rectangular, north–south oriented

Material

Lime mortar

Rubble stone

Roof System

Cradle vault

Çekereksu Hanı is located near Kesikköprü Örencik Village, between the districts of Saraykent and Kadışehri in Yozgat Province, along the banks of the Çekerek River. This structure dates to the Anatolian Seljuk period and was constructed between 1239 and 1240. It is attributed to Melike Mahperi Hatun, one of the prominent female figures of the era. The route on which the caravanserai stands was historically a major trade artery, and the structure is understood to have served as a lodging and logistical hub within this context.

Architectural Features

Çekereksu Hanı is a rectangular building oriented north-south. It was constructed using rubble stone and lime mortar. The roof is covered with a barrel vault. The interior consists of two main sections: a large central hall to the north and three longitudinal vaulted side chambers to the south. This arrangement reflects a functional design consistent with the architectural practices of the period.


The load-bearing walls and vaulted ceiling remain largely intact. However, it is reported that certain original architectural elements, such as cut stone, have been removed over time and relocated to surrounding villages. As a result, some parts of the structure have lost their material authenticity, though their structural integrity has been preserved.


Çekereksu Hanı (Kültürportalı)

Current Condition and Visual Observations

According to visual records published by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the majority of the caravanserai remains standing. The barrel-vault system is still identifiable today. However, localized damage, mortar loss, and surface erosion are evident on the exterior stonework. Due to exposure to open-air conditions, the structure faces a risk of further deterioration.


Çekereksu Hanı (Kültürportalı)

Conservation and Documentation Status

The structure has not undergone any comprehensive restoration. This underscores the urgent need to document and preserve its current condition before further degradation occurs. Existing academic studies have identified its architecture, construction techniques, and historical significance. However, no archaeological excavations, epigraphic research, or structural reinforcement efforts have yet been carried out. Future scientific documentation-supported architectural restoration will ensure the preservation of the site and its transmission as cultural heritage to coming generations.


Çekereksu Hanı (Kültürportalı)


Çekereksu Hanı (Kültürportalı)


Çekereksu Hanı (Kültürportalı)

Bibliographies

Kutlu, Cemal. “Yozgat Hanları.” *Yozgat Tarihi ve Kültürü*, Volume I. Ankara: Akçağ Yayıncılık, 2022, pp. 319–338. Accessed July 13, 2025.https://www.academia.edu/95109985/Yozgat_Hanları

T.C. Ministry of Culture and Tourism. "Saraykent Çekereksu Hanı ve Köprüsü – Kesikköprü Örencik Köyü." *Türkiye Kültür Portalı Fotoğraf Arşivi*, Visual No: 23800. Accessed July 13, 2025.https://www.kulturportali.gov.tr/medya/fotograf/fotodetay/23800

T.C. Ministry of Culture and Tourism. “Çekereksu Hanı – Yozgat.” Türkiye Kültür Portalı. Accessed July 13, 2025.https://www.kulturportali.gov.tr/turkiye/yozgat/gezilecekyer/cekereksu-hani

Author Information

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AuthorYusuf İslam TuğlaJuly 15, 2026 at 5:01 AM

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Contents

  • Architectural Features

  • Current Condition and Visual Observations

  • Conservation and Documentation Status