Rabat-e Kohneh Caravanserai

Rabat-e Kohneh Caravanserai is located in Yazd Province, Mehriz County, Central District, Khormiz Rural District, in the historic village of Saryazd, in the Sofla (Lower) neighbourhood. This valuable building is regarded as one of the region's most notable historic monuments. It stands on old desert trade routes and was once used as a resting place and lodging for caravans and travellers. Although parts of it are attributed to the Qajar period, some historical and architectural evidence also links its earliest origins to the Seljuk period. The monument was inscribed on Iran's National Heritage List on 18 Esfand 1387 (9 March 2009) under registration number 25356.

The caravanserai is built of raw mud brick and local materials, and is an example of Iranian desert architecture in a hot, dry climate. The overall plan is a central courtyard measuring roughly 25 by 25 metres, surrounded by raised platforms (soffeh) and separate spaces, each connected to its own alcoves. Spaces for keeping animals are set into the corners of the building, and the whole structure was shaped to provide the greatest stability against the local climate with the least material. The difference in level between the courtyard and the platforms, together with the design of thick piers, are the distinctive architectural features of this rabat. They helped regulate temperature and create suitable conditions for travellers to rest.

Rabat-e Kohneh can be reached by the roads leading to Saryazd village in Mehriz County, and because it lies within the village's historic fabric, access is relatively easy. The best times to visit are autumn, winter and early spring, when the weather in this desert region is milder and more comfortable. Alongside the rabat, visitors can also see Saryazd's other historic buildings and its traditional village fabric. Responsible nature-tourism practices are essential when visiting this valuable site: keep the surroundings clean, respect the historic structure, and avoid any damage to its mud-brick fabric.