There are lots of interesting and amazing places to visit in Turkey, among one of the most interesting is the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Carsisi) in Istanbul which is like a giant labyrinth.
Grand Bazaar Istanbul
Located about a 15 minute walk from the Blue Mosque (Aye Sofya), the bazaar (market) is spread across over 58 covered streets and has more than 4,000 shops selling carpets, kilims (woven rugs), furniture, spices, jewellery, gold, silver, old coins, watches, clocks, copper goods, leather goods, antiques, pottery, belly-dancing outfits and much much more.
This is one of the oldest covered markets in the world. Opened since 1461 the market underwent major restoration work following an earthquake in 1894 and a large fire in 1954.
In the middle of the bazaar there is the Cevahir Bedesten which is a high domed hall where you will find antiques and valuable items for sale.
Grand Bazaar interior
The bazaar also has two mosques, two hamams, restaurants, cafes and four fountains.
The Grand Bazaar is located near Istanbul University and stretches from Yeniceriler Caddesi right down to Eminonu where the Egyptian Spice Bazaar (Misir Carisisi) begins. The spice bazaar is a lot smaller than the Grand Bazaar and was built in 1660 to help support the upkeep of the New Mosque. Here you will find a multitude of spices and goods such as lokum (turkish delight), coffee, teas, dried fruit and more.
Entrance to the bazaar is gained by four main gates which are located at the ends of its two main streets which meet at the southwest corner of the complex. The main entrance is the Nuruosmaniye Gate (The Light of the Ottomans) which takes you straight on to a street full of jewellery shops.
Egyptian Spice Bazaar
The bazaar is closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays.
There are lots of holiday packages on offer throughout the internet.
If you wish to add a trip to the Grand Bazaar to your itinerary then why not book one of the last minute holiday deals to Turkey where you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to great places to visit.
1 Response to The Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul Hotel
June 7th, 2011 at 10:43 am
Istanbul is one of the best cultural countries in the world. Its history is amazing to learn. Some of the historical monuments and buildings are worth visiting. Its surely to give you an awesome experience.