# Fath-Ali Shah Caravanserai

The Fath Ali Shah Caravanserai, (Persian: کاروانسرای فتحعلیشاهی) also called the Robat Karim Caravanserai or Haj Kamal Caravanserai is a caravanserai located at kilometer 30 of the Tehran-Saveh road in the Robat Karim district of Tehran province, Iran. This caravanserai was built in 1829 during the reign of Fath Ali Shah. It is one of the tourist attractions of Robat Karim. The building is made of stone, brick, clay mortar, and plaster, and its only decoration is brickwork. Part of this caravanserai, known as the "meeting hall," was used for storytelling and narration. On the rooftop of the caravanserai, there are two watchtowers where guards would stay to monitor the entire Robat Karim area.

## History

An inscription on the entrance of this caravanserai bears the name "Kamal Caravanserai" and the construction date of 1245 AH (Islamic calendar). Kamal was a eunuch in Fath Ali Shah’s harem and the founder of this caravanserai. It is worth noting that no fees were charged for accommodating travelers at this caravanserai, and there are signs of a minting workshop, indicating that it was also a place where coins were struck.

## Layout

Currently, the cultural heritage of this caravanserai has been transformed into workshops for handicrafts. The caravanserai spans 3,500 square meters with a 2,400-square-meter built area, featuring 24 rooms, each equipped with a cooking stove, a water reservoir, 5 stables, and royal chambers. Two of the rooms are located in the entrance vestibule, while the others are arranged around the central courtyard. The stables are positioned behind the rooms at the four corners of the caravanserai, with access to them through entrances at the corners of the structure. At present, one of these stables has been converted into a conference room where storytelling ceremonies are held, and the other rooms are used for educational workshops in various handicraft fields. The materials used in the construction of this caravanserai include brick, lime, and plaster mortar. The only decoration is brickwork.

## Storytelling Hall

The part of this caravanserai known as the meeting hall was used for storytelling and narrative performances. Behind these halls, there was a special area called the Shah-Neshin (King's Seat/room), which was reserved for dignitaries. The Shah-Neshin had a high terrace, and there were corridors alongside it. These corridors served as resting places and accommodations for the servants and the women of the inner quarters.

## Watch

On the roof of this caravanserai, there are two watchtowers where guards are stationed to keep watch, allowing them to observe the entire area of Rabat Karim. The materials used in the construction include brick with a mixture of clay, lime, and gypsum. The thick foundations of the caravanserai have played a key role in preserving the building over the years. Unfortunately, a large portion of the roof has become blackened and has deviated from its original state due to certain reasons. However, the cultural heritage authorities are making every effort to restore it to its former condition.

## National Registration

This site was registered as a national monument under number 1558 on January 9, 1978.

## Access

The Fath Ali Shah Caravanserai is located in Robat Karim County, on Imam Khomeini Boulevard, at the end of Mosalla Street, and facing the Jamé Mosque of Robat Karim.

## Gallery

* Media related to Fath-Ali Shah Caravanserai at Wikimedia Commons