Bazaar & Caravanserai of Khan Amin al-Dowleh Timche - Kashan
Kashan Bazaar
It is believed that Kashan Bazaar started during the Seljuk era (10th century) but additions were made by the later rulers. One of the major renovation work was carried out during the Safavid dynasty. During day time, the Kashan closes for around two hours but in the evening, this bazaar has completely different story to tell.
This bazaar is a large enough to surprise but not to get lost in it’s alleyways. The marketplace or bazaar with its network of passageways contain historic treasures like an 800-year-old mosque and historic bath houses that some of them have been converted to tea shops. Dried fruits are gathered from the local orchards and they go on sale in shops of the bazaar. Kashani biscuits are one of the best in Iran, the nargili (coconut macaroons) are particularly delicious.
Caravanserai of Khan Amin al-Dowleh Timche
A beautiful Caravanserai of Khan Amin al-Dowleh Timche is located inside the Kashan Bazaar. This caravanserai is famous for it’s large and well adorned dome. The Khan Amin al-Dowleh Timche section was built in the 19th century to cater for the travelers on the Silk Route.
The Upper section of the caravanserai was used for the sleeping while middle and lower sections were used for the storage of the wares. Khan Amin al-Dowleh Timche Caravanserai is a masterpiece of Persian architecture in Kashan. In the central part of the caravanserai (under the dome) is a vast open space and a small cafe in the corner offers refreshments. A fountain is located in the middle of the caravanserai for beauty and cooling effects in hot summer days.
