In days past, the hans of Istanbul functioned as inns; places for traveling merchants to rest and do business. Most frequently, the hans consisted of courtyards with a fountain for washing, and a kitchen or tea house. The Grand Bazaar, naturally, was a major hub for merchants, so itâs unsurprising to find so many hans within its walls. Most hans were dedicated to a particular craft, and many still are. You can find gold-spinning in AstarcÄ± Han, chains in Zincirli Han and silver merchants in Kalcilar Han.