Abacıoğlu Han
Travel Point Overview
Tucked away behind the hustle and bustle of Kemeraltı Bazaar, Abacıoğlu Han is one of İzmir’s hidden historical gems.
🏛️ Abacıoğlu Han – A Hidden Historical Courtyard in the Heart of İzmir
Tucked away behind the hustle and bustle of Kemeraltı Bazaar,
Abacıoğlu Han is one of İzmir’s hidden historical gems.
As soon as you step through its modest entrance,
you’re greeted by a peaceful courtyard, surrounded by stone architecture that whispers stories of the past.
With its authentic charm and tranquil atmosphere,
Abacıoğlu Han offers visitors a perfect place to pause and unwind right in the city center.
🧱 From the 18th Century to Today
It is believed that Abacıoğlu Han was built in the early 18th century by Hacı Mustafa Ağa.
The structure represents a fine example of traditional Ottoman inn (han) architecture,
featuring:
- An asymmetrical layout
- A central courtyard
- Surrounding two-story shops built with cut stone, rough stone, and brick
During the early years of the Turkish Republic, the han served dual purposes:
- As a fruit and vegetable market
- And as a transportation hub for trucks carrying passengers and goods to nearby districts
🏺 Architectural Features & Restoration Recognition
Though only the northeastern and southwestern wings of the han survive today,
the remaining structure offers a glimpse into its original form:
- On the right side of the courtyard: 7 shops with stone façades, arched windows, and wooden details
- On the left side: 8 shops topped with a pitched roof and double rows of windows
- Some interiors have been transformed into two-story wooden spaces, with original features preserved
🏆 In 2007, the han was awarded the "Respect for History – Local Award"
🏆 In 2011, it was selected as one of the Top 30 Architectural Projects in the Philippe Rotthier European Architecture Awards
☕ A Cultural Stop with Local Charm
Today, Abacıoğlu Han is a vibrant yet serene cultural and touristic destination,
home to:
- Cafés & tea houses
- Traditional restaurants
- Silver shops
- Carpet and leather goods vendors
It’s a great place to relax, enjoy local flavors, and experience authentic İzmir atmosphere away from the crowd.
🎶 Occasional cultural events and live music performances add to its charm.
📍 How to Get There
📍 Address: Anafartalar Caddesi, 920 Sokak, Kemeraltı – Konak / İzmir
🚶♂️ Located within Kemeraltı Bazaar, it’s easily reachable on foot
🚌 Public transport to Konak Square, then a short walk to the han entrance
📲 Explore Abacıoğlu Han with Advisormapp
Use the Advisormapp mobile app to enhance your experience:
- 🗺️ Interactive map and real-time navigation
- 🏛️ Historical background of the han
- 🛍️ Recommended shops, cafés, and artisan stalls
- 🎧 Audio guide and visual storytelling
- 📸 Photo spots and event updates
🌐 Learn more at: www.advisormapp.com
🏛️ Abacıoğlu Han: A Quiet Echo of the Past in the Heart of the City
Whether you're exploring Kemeraltı or simply looking for a peaceful escape in İzmir,
Abacıoğlu Han invites you to sit, sip some tea, and enjoy the quiet company of centuries past.
Don’t miss this authentic stop on your journey through İzmir’s living history.