Rüstem Pasha Caravanserai Restoration

Edirne, Türkiye

Recipient of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 1980.

The caravanserai (once a warehouse and overnight stop for camel caravans) is located in the historical centre of the city. Built in the 16th century by the great architect Sinan, it was restored and converted into a 150-room hotel in 1972. Although the restoration itself represents a high standard of conception and performance, the hotel conversion proved impractical. The jury commended the restoration of an important monument in spite of the failure of its re-use. In their words: "While in its execution the work measures up to the established principles and techniques of restoration, the decision to convert the building into a modern hotel has proved unrealistic. This type of hotel with its sophisticated services requires spatial and technical flexibility which a traditional building does not possess. Despite these shortcomings, the attempt to rehabilitate a historic monument is commendable and points to an important direction if there is to be a positive policy in architectural conservation."

Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture