Koza Han: Historic Silk Bazaar & Ottoman Caravanserai
Koza Han (literally “Silk Cocoon Inn”) was built in 1491 by Sultan Bayezid II. The building was set up as a foundation to generate revenue for the Sultan’s religious complex in Istanbul. For centuries, merchants from across Asia and Europe gathered here to trade silk cocoons, fine fabrics and spices. Today, it remains at the center of the famous silk industry of Bursa and is a charming gathering spot with it courtyard tea houses.
Highlights of Koza Han
The Central Courtyard & Elevated Mescit
A small prayer hall is raised on stone pillars at the heart of the stone courtyard. The mescit was built for travelers who arrived outside prayer times and served as a place of worship without an imam to lead prayer. Locals and travelers relax in the tree shaded courtyard, sitting at the local tea houses sipping Turkish tea or coffee and fresh pastries.
Shopping for Genuine Bursa Silk
The upper gallery of Koza Han features dozens of vaulted stone rooms converted into specialized silk boutiques. Visitors can browse a vast selection of high quality silk products, including hand woven silk scarves, shawls, ties and traditional Ottoman textiles.
- Authentic Quality: Look for items produced locally in Bursa, which has maintained its silk weaving craftsmanship for over six centuries.
- Bargaining & Courtesy: Prices in boutique shops are generally fixed, though polite inquiries about discounts on multiple purchases are welcomed.
The upper floor of Koza Han houses dozens of traditional boutiques specializing in Bursa silk scarves and textiles.
Historic Atmosphere & Tea Culture
Koza Han is surrounded by the Covered Bazaar of Bursa. After exploring the market lanes, relaxing in Koza Han’s shaded courtyard for a glass of tea or Turkish coffee is an essential Bursa experience.
Location & Travel Guide
Koza Han is located in the heart of Bursa, positioned between the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami) and Orhan Gazi Mosque.
Practical Travel Tips:
- How to Get There: Easily reached on foot from any central Bursa hotel. If arriving via the Bursa T1 tram line, get off at the Ulu Cami or Heykel stop.
- Nearby Culinary Stops: A few steps from Koza Han, historic restaurants serve the iconic Iskender Kebab of Bursa. This kebab is different than what you might have tasted before. It is thinly sliced lamb over sliced pita bread served with tomato sauce, browned butter and creamy yoghurt.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning hours (9:30 AM - 11:30 AM) offer peaceful shopping before afternoon tea crowds arrive.
Surrounded by Ottoman arches, the central courtyard is a popular afternoon retreat in Bursa.
