Full Name: Khan As’ad Pasha Al-Azm
Building Type: Khan and Inn (Caravanserai/Hotel)
Current Use: Under restoration
Ownership: Directorate-General of Antiquities and Museums
Registration Number and Date: 519 T – 13/7/1948
Property Number: 798
Property Location: Al-Bzourieh
Address: In the heart of the famous Al-Bzourieh Market, south of the Umayyad Mosque
Historical Period: Ottoman
Construction Date: 1167 AH / 1753 AD
Builder: As’ad Pasha Al-Azm, Governor of Damascus
Historical Overview:
Located in the heart of the old city, Khan As’ad Pasha is considered one of the finest khans in Damascus. It has enjoyed great fame since its construction and continues to attract tourists. The khan was built by the Governor of Damascus, As’ad Pasha ibn Ismail Pasha Al-Azm, who ruled between 1156–1170 AH. Construction began in 1165 AH / 1751 AD and was completed in 1167 AH / 1753 AD. Six years after its completion, a major earthquake struck Damascus and several other Syrian cities, destroying many important buildings. Three large domes of this magnificent khan collapsed during the earthquake.
General Description of the Building:
The building is accessed through a large wooden gate with a smaller door (khawkhah) in its center, leading to a covered entrance with an arch adorned with decorations. On both sides of the entrance, stairs lead to the upper floor. The entrance opens into a central courtyard covered by nine domes (with the central dome open). The domes feature wooden decorations and plaster reliefs and are supported by four columns and the surrounding walls. In the center of the courtyard, there is a multi-sided fountain. Surrounding the courtyard are 82 rooms, distributed on both the ground and upper floors.
Building Condition: Good
