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Kumarcilar Han (Gambler's Inn)

Kumarcilar Han

The Kumarcilar Han, also called the Gambler's Inn, is just 100 yards or so north of the Buyuk Han, in Asmaalti Square, It is presently closed and  semi-derelict, waiting renovation.

Much smaller than the Buyuk Han, the Kumarcilar Han is nonetheless typical of an Ottoman inner city commercial inn. It is not known exactly when the inn was built, but it is thought to be around the end of the 17th century. In the middle ages,  merchants used to group themselves together according to their trades. When travelling, merchants from the same town  or trade would favour certain hans, would tend to assume the name of that town or trade. The Gambler's Inn was originally known as the Violinist's or Fiddler's Inn. It's not known when, or indeed why, the name changed.

The Upper Floor

The main gate is not original, being a comparatively recent repair. Inside, however, is a second monumental carved gate, which dates to before the Ottoman conquest.  This has lead experts to believe that the structure stands on a much earlier building, possibly the ruins of a monastery.

The han is a two storied building, originally having 56 rooms. Those on the upper story were used by the travellers, while those on the ground floor were used for their animals and belongings. On the ground floor, the rooms have stone floors and an external window. A stair leads to the upper storey, where the floor is marble. Some of the rooms have fireplaces.

In recent years, the building was repaired and used as an office for the Department of Antiquities. These alterations and repairs have now been removed in readiness for renovation. It is planned that the building be converted into 44 shop units, which will be rented to traders selling authentic local products including food, artworks, ornaments, and crafts.

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