The 15th-century Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, or Kapali Carsi as it is called in Turkish, is the largest covered market in Turkey. It sells traditional carpets, jewellery, textiles, antiques, and souvenirs. Enter through the arched entrance to witness the sheer vastness and enormity of the place, with high vaulted roofing, booth-like shops with wares spilling over into the passageways, the din, the colour, and the sense of chaos.
Delve into colour, chintz, craftsmanship, and, to be frank, a fair amount of cheap goods. There are so many items for sale, and something for everyone: jewellery, rugs, pots, spices, leather, clothing, fruit, and vegetables. It is a place to have a cultural experience and buy souvenirs, so let’s find out what to know.
About the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul
These days, the bazaar covers 30,700 square metres and has up to 4000 shops. Still, the original core area was the Ic Bedesten, known as the Cevahir Bedesteni, completed by Mehmet II in 1461. When the bazaar first opened, locals gathered here after visiting nearby mosques. They could catch up and buy or trade products; today's only real difference is a more extensive selection of items and more visitors.
Bedesten means the part of a bazaar where valuable items are kept, and this name still refers to many areas within. Mehmet II, or Mehmet the Conqueror as he is known, was the sultan responsible for conquering Constantinople in 1453, effectively ending the Byzantine Empire and establishing the start of the Ottoman Empire. As the original bedesten multiplied into two, roofs and porches were erected so commerce could be comfortably conducted in all types of weather and lockable doors and gates were added so that it could be closed at night at the close of business.
The building eventually evolved into a sprawling roofed complex of thousands of shops, bordered by tradespeople's workshops known as Hans, or kervensaray. Spreading out over some 60 alleys and streets, it is now a veritable maze. Many hands are still used today, especially in jewellery quarters, where skilled artisans create customised designs.
Visiting the Bazaar
Look at a map beforehand to get your bearings. The Bazaar stretches from west to east between the mosques of Beyazit and Nuruosmaniye, two of the most popular entrances. To get there, catch a 10-minute tram ride from Eminonu (which will pass by the Sultanahmet area of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia) and alight at Beyazit. This entrance, called Carsikapi Gate, takes visitors into the jewellery section, a popular starting place. On the way back to Eminonu, take a 15-minute stroll downhill, passing through the Tahtakale District, which provides a more down-to-earth but vibrant street-lined market where better bargains are found.
Most sellers offering similar products are grouped to make shopping more manageable, and specialist areas are devoted to one subject, such as leather. A decent floor plan shows the Carsikapi entrance, following the Feraceciler Sokak straight towards the Oruculer Gate, for textiles, bathrobes, or pestemals (used to cover yourself in a Turkish Hamam).
Alternatively, turn right along the Kalpakcilar Caddesi, the widest thoroughfare, heading towards Nuruosmaniye Gate, which has various roads leading off from here. This route will provide the easiest way to reach other 'must-see' areas such as the historic Ic (Cevahir) Bedesten for carpets and kilims and the Zincirli Han, where jewellery is custom-made to order.
Although situated close to other Istanbul attractions like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace in nearby Sultanahmet, visit them on separate days as all require significant time and effort. Getting a good deal is not necessarily a quick transaction and will invariably entail drinking Turkish tea or cay as much as at any other Turkish market. However, do not assume this means you must buy something.
Treat the haggling as good banter, and have an entertaining afternoon or morning out. However, be clear and resolute to avoid ill-advised purchases. There are plenty of small items, but research thoroughly beforehand to make big purchases, like an antique, carpet, or jewellery. Plenty of shops are within close range, so you can easily research prices.
Historical Significance
The 15th-century Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) is a significant and historically rich landmark, both culturally and commercially. The historical significance has played a vital role in the development of Istanbul as a major centre of trade, culture, and economics.
Origins and Construction: Sultan Mehmed II conquered Constantinople in 1453 and built the structure shortly after. Initially a tiny area that grew over time into a sprawling complex by the 17th century, the landmark fostered trade between East and West.
Economic Hub: The Bazaar excelled in trade for centuries, bringing together merchants worldwide. As the central marketplace where exotic spices, silk, textiles, gold, and other luxury items were exchanged, the building linked Europe and Asia through the Silk Road.
Cultural Significance: The Bazaar was always more than just a marketplace; it was a place for social interaction, cultural exchange, and political discussions. Representing the blending of East and West, with architecture reflecting Islamic and Byzantine influences, people from different cultures, religions, and ethnicities gathered here.
Architectural Wonder: The Bazaar, with 60 streets and over 4,000 shops, is Turkey’s largest covered market. Featuring impressive domed roofs, intricate stonework, and beautiful Ottoman architecture, the labyrinth-like design protected merchants and buyers from the weather and also provides security. Today, the bustling and vibrant place attracts millions of tourists annually. Although the building has evolved with modern influences, historic charm still sits on every corner as a living testament to Istanbul's rich trading past.
What to Expect When Visiting
Massive Market: With 4,000 shops spread across 61 streets, the market is divided into sections, each specialising in specific products: jewellery, carpets, spices, textiles, leather, and more. Expect the buzz of vendors calling out to potential customers, shopkeepers offering samples and crowds of tourists and locals navigating the narrow, maze-like alleys.
Haggling: If buying something expensive, negotiate the price of items. It's a fun and expected part of shopping, and vendors expect some back-and-forth. Just be polite and enjoy the process. Famous for high-quality handmade items like intricate jewellery, handwoven carpets, textiles, ceramics, and leather clothing and accessories, each item often has a unique, traditional touch that reflects Turkish craftsmanship.
Crowds and Noise: Be prepared for large crowds, especially during peak hours or tourist seasons. The market gets busy, and there’s a constant hum of voices, shopkeepers calling out, and the shuffle of feet. The layout is confusing at first. Winding passages, small courtyards, and multiple entrances make getting lost easy. But wander through the maze and discover new shops as you go! Small cafes and houses serve Turkish tea, coffee, and cold refreshments.
Layout and Sections
The complex layout has various sections dedicated to specific products. Enslaved people were sold here up until the 19th century; thankfully, that practice isn't common anymore, but there is much more to explore. The building has over 60 streets divided into various areas based on the items sold. The labyrinth of narrow corridors and domed roofs creates a maze-like atmosphere within walking distance. There are multiple entrances, but the main ones are near prominent landmarks like the Nuruosmaniye Mosque.
Jewellery Shops (Altın Çarşı): This section specialises in gold, silver, precious metals, intricate jewellery, coins, and precious stones.
Carpet Shops: This is where to find Turkish carpets, kilims, and textiles and attracts tourists looking for authentic souvenirs.
Antique Section: One-of-a-kind items of antiques, vintage items, and collectables, attract people from all over the country. Some are vendors who have shops in other destinations, and that makes this a hub of excellence.
Clothing and Leather Goods: Various shops offer traditional clothing, leather jackets, bags, and accessories. It’s an excellent spot for quality leather goods. Although they do take credit cards, vendors love cash buyers.
Pottery and Ceramics: Traditional Turkish ceramics, pottery, and tiles often feature colourful designs with intricate patterns and motifs.
Textiles and Fabrics: Vendors sell all fabrics, from silks to cotton, for clothing or home décor. Some shops sell ready-made garments, while others sell fabrics.
Herbs, Perfumes, and Souvenirs: Find various herbs for medicinal purposes, perfumes, and souvenirs like magnets, scarves, and handmade crafts.
Shoes and Leather Boots: As the name suggests, this section sells high-quality leather shoes, boots, sandals, and slippers.
Furniture and Home Décor: Some parts are dedicated to selling wooden furniture, home décor items, and traditional Turkish lamps.
There are narrow streets, but the central aisles are wider to accommodate crowds. The structure, distinguished by vaulted ceilings with domes and arches, keeps the building cool in summer and warm in winter. Much of the covered structure protects shoppers from the weather, creating distinctive indoor atmospheres. Alongside the shops are traditional tea houses and small cafés where visitors relax and experience Turkish hospitality. Several mosques, including the Suleymaniye Mosque, are nearby.
About the Hans of the Bazaar
"Hans" refers to historical buildings or inns traditionally used by traders and merchants to rest, store goods, and conduct business. These Hans provided shelter and protection and offered commercial and social space. Each Han typically had a central courtyard surrounded by rooms or shops, and they were often located along key routes where trade was prominent.
These structures are generally known for their distinctive architecture, which includes large gates, high walls, and sometimes even multiple stories. While some Hans were converted for other uses, some retain their historical character and are integral to the unique atmosphere. Look out for Astarcı Han, Zincirli Han and Kalcilar Han.
Also, Visit Other Landmarks
Known for the Hagia Sophia mosque, the Blue Mosque and other delights like the Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace, the Sultanahmet district was where the Ottoman and Byzantine empires ruled their lands. The wealth of cultures sits on every corner, with significant landmarks on the famous square and the maze of back streets. Alternatively, head in the opposite direction and head to Istiklal Avenue in Beyoglu. Displaying Turkish culture at its best, it's the heart of shopping and nightlife, hence the crowded street. Both are excellent places to visit after exploring the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul.
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