Grand Bazaar 550 Years of Culture and Trade in the Heart of Istanbul
The Grand Bazaar is a trading center and a treasure trove of cultural heritage with a history of nearly 550 years, located in the heart of Istanbul and recognized as one of Turkey’s most important cultural landmarks. Built by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror in the 15th century, the bazaar expanded with the growth of the Ottoman Empire, becoming the center of both eastern and western trade. Known even today as one of the largest and oldest covered bazaars in the world, the Grand Bazaar attracts millions of visitors every year with its nearly 4,000 shops spread over more than 60 streets. In these shops, a wide range of businesses, from jewelers to carpet makers, spice sellers to antique dealers, keep the Ottoman tradition of craftsmanship and commercial culture alive.
Every corner of the Grand Bazaar offers an atmosphere reeking of history and culture. The colorful stained glass windows, embroidered doors and domes that dazzle the eyes as you pass through the bazaar reflect the aesthetics and splendor of Ottoman architecture. More than just a place to shop, the Grand Bazaar is a socializing space where people come together, chat and engage in cultural exchanges. Here you can see the best examples of ancient Turkish handicrafts and watch crafts such as coppersmithing, carpet weaving and traditional jewelry making. The shops inside the Grand Bazaar are symbols of crafts and trade passed down from family to family; many shopkeepers continue the professions they learned from their grandfathers here, ensuring that the culture is passed down from generation to generation. This bazaar in the heart of Istanbul is both a cultural heritage that keeps the traces of the past alive and a vibrant commercial center that keeps up with the pace of the modern world.