Khan al-Khayyatin

Khan al-Khayyatin, also known as the Tailors’ Khan, is one of the most beautiful Mamluk caravanserais in Tripoli. It stands out for its unique architectural design, featuring a long courtyard that resembles a roofed street. Shops line both sides of the passage, and gates on the east and west connect it to the nearby souks.

Although no historical inscription confirms its exact construction date, historians believe it was built in the 14th century during the Mamluk era. In front of the western gate, two ancient Byzantine columns with crowned capitals still remain. These, along with Byzantine fragments at the entrance of Hammam Ezzeddine suggesting the existence of a Byzantine building in the same place of the Hammam and Khan al-Khayyatin.

According to Tripoli’s historian, Dr. Omar Abdul-Salam Tadmouri, the city was a Crusader stronghold before the Mamluks took control. During that time, Tripoli gained fame for its textile and silk production. The industry flourished, and thousands of woven fabrics were exported to Europe.

When the Mamluks arrived, they found over four thousand weaving looms operating in the city, a clear sign of its prosperity. As a result, the new rulers built a khan to serve the needs of tailors and merchants. It became known as Khan al-Khayyatin, or the Tailors’ Inn, a vibrant center for weaving, sewing, and trade.

Historically, locals also called it “Caesarea,” a Roman term for a roofed market. In such structures, craftsmen used the ground floor for manufacturing and sales, while merchants and travelers stayed on the upper level.

Today, Khan al-Khayyatin remains an active part of Tripoli’s old souks, preserving the city’s long tradition of craftsmanship and trade.