Akdağ Madeni Eski Cezaevi, Yozgat'ın Akdağmadeni ilçe merkezinde, 19. yüzyıla tarihlenen ve han olarak inşa edildikten sonra hapishane olarak kullanılan, şimdi halk kütüphanesine dönüştürülen tarihi bina. Mermer kapısındaki aslan kabartması ve on sütunlu revaklı avlusu özgün Osmanlı mimari özelliklerini yansıtıyor.
Located in the center of Akdagmadeni, this structure, today also known as Tiftik Han, was initially established as a caravanserai and served as a prison for an extended period. Based on architectural evidence, it is estimated to date to the 19th century and has been registered under the name "prison" by decision of the High Council of Monuments. Following the plan of Ottoman urban caravanserais with a single courtyard, two stories, and porticoes, the building has been restored and converted into the Akdagmadeni District Public Library.
The outer facade is built from cut marble and quarry stone, with the door featuring a rounded arch and double leaves. At the center of the arch is a lion relief in profile, flanked on both sides by "Mashallah" and "Subhanallah" inscriptions within circles. The triangular pediment above the arch is decorated with floral relief motifs. Upon entering, one reaches a courtyard with ten columned porticoes; above the door of one of the upper-floor rooms is a relief inscription of the date 1316 Hijri.
Today, operating as a library with over 4,000 active members, the building serves as a point of interest for both those coming to read and visitors wishing to see the former prison structure. Two stone staircases across from the courtyard entrance lead to a second door at the level of the back street. This detail is one of the clearest traces of the building's design as a caravanserai.
Guide's Note
The Building's History
The building was originally constructed as a caravanserai, dating to the 19th century based on its architectural features. Subsequently, it was used as a prison for an extended period; it is noted that many political prisoners were held here during this time. By decision of the High Council of Monuments, it was registered under the name "prison," and after restoration was converted into the Akdagmadeni District Public Library. It is considered an important example within the group of Ottoman urban caravanserais with single courtyards, two stories, and porticoes.
Architectural Details and Photography Spots
The outer facade is built from cut marble and quarry stone, with a tile-covered roof. The rounded-arch, double-leaf entrance door has a lion relief in profile at its center, with 'Mashallah' and 'Subhanallah' inscriptions in circles on both sides. Above the arch, within a triangular pediment, there are floral-motif reliefs. Inside, there is a courtyard with ten columned porticoes, with vaulted arches and 11 rooms on the upper floor; above the door of one of the rooms is a relief inscription of the date 1316 Hijri. Two stone staircases across from the courtyard lead to a second door at the level of the back street.
How to Get There
Akdagmadeni is a district approximately 100 km from Yozgat city center, reached by road. Traveling via Yozgat by private vehicle is the most practical route. For those traveling by bus, services are organized from Yozgat bus station to Akdagmadeni; from the district terminal, the center can be reached quickly by municipal bus, minibus, or taxi. The building is located on Ataturk Avenue, at a point close to the district center.
Transportation Within the District
Municipal buses and minibuses operate in front of the terminal from 06:00 in the morning to 22:00 at night, serving every neighborhood of the district. Taxis also operate 24/7. Since the building is close to the center, most visitors can reach it on foot from the terminal or by a short minibus ride.
How Much Time to Allow
20-40 minutes is sufficient for the building. Viewing the lion-relief door, the courtyard, and the upper-floor rooms does not take much time. Since there are other historic structures and natural areas in Akdagmadeni, it makes sense to combine this visit with other stops during the day.
Things to Know Before Visiting
Since the building is today used as an active public library, quiet must be maintained inside. Library operating hours follow weekday business schedules, so verifying the current operating hours of the district library before visiting is advisable. The building has stairs and an old structure, so circulation with a wheelchair or stroller is limited.
Other Nearby Stops
In addition to this building, there are other historic structures in Akdagmadeni. The Akdagmadeni forests are among the district's natural attractions. After exploring the historic center, taking a short nature route is an option to complete your day.
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