The town of Jaljulia – close to the historic Sea Road, which connected Egypt and Syria in the Middle Ages – features the remains of a khan or caravasar built in the 14th century. This building, once was a hub for travelers and merchants, now presents vestiges of its east and west wings. But the north and south sides have disappeared almost completely.

Drawn up by Elias Khuri Architects in collaboration with Giulia Milesi, the restoration project aims to preserve a piece of Palestinian heritage by transforming it into a center for culture, tourism, and handicrafts. Given the scarcity of resources available and the limited budget, the intervention is respectful and based on a modest, simple design.

The restoration is being carried out in two stages. The completed first phase invovled creating an open market, Plaza Khan, which serves to raise the funds needed for works to be carried out. Measures are being taken to prevent further deterioration of the architectural remains until the funds are secured. In the second phase, the khan will be fully restored and adapted for contemporary uses, regaining its past splendor as a cultural and commercial center.

A key aspect of the project is the restoration of the khan’s eastern section, which includes the main entrance and an elevated platform of local stone with a ramp and tiered seating. This iron structure complements the original design. A central piece, also made of iron, will go up in Plaza Khan, destined to become a 367-square-meter open market. There will be exhibition stalls inside and around the plaza, arranged in accordance with a 3x3-meter grid of columns, a scheme inspired by the khan’s original layout.

This restoration and revamp seeks not only to preserve heritage, but also to strengthen Palestinian cultural identity and protect an invaluable legacy for future generations.

Fotos cortesía de Elias Khuri