Ribat-i Sharaf

Ribat-i Sharaf is a Seljuk-era caravanserai and roadside complex in Razavi Khorasan province in northeastern Iran, notable for its well-preserved brickwork and portal decoration. The structure dates from the medieval period and served as an inn and staging post for travellers and caravans.

The complex is laid out around a central courtyard with vaulted rooms and a monumental entrance that demonstrates medieval brick ornament and architectural technique. It is regarded as an important example of caravanserai architecture from the region and is visited for its surviving decorative treatment and plan.

Historically it functioned as a roadside lodging and service point on regional routes through Khorasan, providing accommodation and protection for traders and pilgrims. Over time parts of the structure fell into ruin but the portal and some vaulted chambers remain visible.

The site sits in Razavi Khorasan province in northeastern Iran and is reached from regional roads that cross this part of the country.

• Seljuk brick decoration: An example of Seljuk-era roadside architecture, notable for its decorative brickwork and monumental entrance portal that survive in the ruin.

• Ribat‑i Sharaf is a remote Seljuk-era caravanserai site with limited on-site facilities; aim to visit in the cooler parts of the day (morning or late afternoon) to avoid extreme heat.
• Access is generally by private car or tour - don't expect signposted tourist infrastructure, so plan logistics in advance and allow time for the rural roads.