Pasangan Caravanserai; a cultural oasis near Qom
Pasangan Caravanserai is situated near Zanburak, approximately 20km from the city of Qom, along the Qom-Kashan highway. Experts believe this caravanserai was constructed in the 13th century during the Qajar era by a businessman named Haj Mohammad Baqer Qazvini. Some speculate, however, that its origins may date back to pre-Safavid times.
Covering an area of half a hectare, Pasangan Caravanserai features a complete brick square layout, measuring 50 meters by 50 meters, with four ivan (arched entrance halls). The structure is two stories tall and includes two smaller porches flanking each of the four ivans. The entrance gate, facing south, is adorned with ten arches on either side and is supported by four semi-circular stone towers at each corner.
The main entrance consists of a brick arch and a façade on both sides that leads into a vestibule. Historically, a second floor existed above the porch of the gate, but no remnants of it remain today. Adjacent to the entrance is a courtyard featuring a central pond, while alcoves can be found on the second floor of the caravanserai.
The caravanserai also includes both an interior and exterior cistern for water storage. Various attractions are available for tourists at Pasangan Caravanserai, including a gallery, astronomy base, bird-watching pavilion, desert exhibition, handicrafts exhibition, art bazaar, and a reception hall.