Payam Caravansary (formerly referred to as Yam) in West Azarbaijan Province is to reopen soon as a lodging facility after being renovated, said a senior authority at Revitalization and Utilization Fund for Historical Places.
The place, which has been under restoration over the past two years, is now ready to host tourists with 21 rooms and an arena with a capacity of over 300 people, Ali Kazemi, the fund’s deputy for investment affairs said.
A separate part at the caravansary has been repurposed to serve as a local bazaar, selling handicrafts and local products, Mehr News Agency reported.
Plus, a ski resort is currently under construction in the vicinity of the caravanserai, which is expected to help the region attract a considerable number of tourists, Kazemi noted.
“After the building officially starts operation in a few weeks, it can also be used as a venue for cultural events.”
Located 35 km to Tabriz-Marand Road, the caravansary had a strategic location on the ancient Silk Road, connecting western and eastern Iran.
Therefore, unlike the other caravansaries in mountainous regions, Payam was built with a central open space and four surrounding balconies to facilitate huge good transactions and accommodate big caravans. The construction dates back to the Safavid dynasty (1501-1736).
