The "revolving tomb" from Seljuk times. Built in 1276 for princess Şah Cihan Hatun.

The rich stone work decoration of the ‘Döner Kümbet’ is characteristic of the Ilhanlı (Mongol) period, which began in 1243 and lasted until 1335. It is Kayseri’s finest türbe.

‘Ilhanlı / Ilkhanids’ = the Iran based Mongols, who defeated the Seljuks of Rûm (capital: Konya) at the Battle of Köse Dağ in 1243 and annexed their territory. This annexation varied according to time and region. Konya, for example, stayed in the hands of the (weakened) Seljuk sultans and their viziers, as long as they recognised the Mongol dominion and paid their taxes. Other Seljuk provinces were ruled by semi-independent local princes (e.g. the Karamanoğlu), or came under direct control of appointed Mongol governors. Kayseri fell under the latter category.

Correspondent: J.M.Criel, Antwerpen.
Source: ‘Guides Bleus: Turquie’ – Edition 1986.