Khan al-Banadiqa

The Khan al-Banudqa, commonly known as Khan of Venice, is one of Aleppo’s historic caravanserais, situated in the old souq district near Souq al-Zarb. It served as a residence for Venetian merchants from Italy and their consul. The khan was established as a result of an economic treaty between Aleppo and Venice, allowing Venetian traders to conduct business, buy and sell goods, and exchange currency within its premises. The first commercial agreement was signed in 1207 AD between the Venetian envoy Pietro Mariniani and the ruler of Aleppo, Al-Zahir Ghazi. Architecturally, the khan follows a rectangular layout and features two courtyards—one large and semi-rectangular, the other smaller and square-shaped. The ground floor housed shops and warehouses, while the upper floor functioned as a hotel for European merchants. The complex also includes a mosque and essential facilities such as a hammam, oven, and kitchen, reflecting its role as a fully integrated commercial hub.