Sire Municipal Inn

Şire Municipal Inn, which is one of the most important inns of Gaziantep city, occupies an area of 7,500 square meters. This is also one of the most important caravanserais in the city. The sale of local delicacies takes place mainly in the inn. This is why the inn is referred to as ‘Sire’. The Sire Municipal Inn, shown among the classical examples of Ottoman Khan architecture, has a rectangular plan. The main feature of the inn, which is distinguished from other historical Inns, is the presence of monumental crown gates on the façade. Construction of the inn started in 1885. The construction process continues for a total of 25 years. Şire Municipal Inn was built by Mustafa Agha who is known as the mayor of that era. All construction costs are covered by the municipality's own budget. The inn has three separate gates in total. In the recent past, unfortunately, this place faces a major fire disaster. Fortunately, the Metropolitan Municipality makes the necessary interventions and performs the necessary repairs. The restoration of the inn remains true to its original texture. During the construction process of Şire Municipality Khan, Governor Rüstem Bey also had serious efforts. The khan's muralist is Ali Efendi's son Abbas. This place is included in the class of ‘single-courtyard and two-storey inns’ in the official records. It is considered as a passenger and business inn during the construction process. As a matter of fact, it manages to be an indispensable stop for the passengers of that period. The sections on the first floor of the inn are used as warehouses, shops or stables. The rooms on the upper floors are designed for the rest of the passengers. All four sides of the courtyard are surrounded by different spaces. In the past, there was a well in the middle of the courtyard, but this well was closed over time. This well is replaced by a pleasant fountain. The porches that surround the inn add a distinct air to the architecture of this place.