This is one of the oldest bazaars in Istanbul – so it's pretty old – it was built in the 16th and 17th Centuries, at the same time as the Yeni Mosque which it's attached to. The space is 'L' shaped, and indoors, and there are 88 separate 'rooms', which are really just one long corridor, all with impressive vaulted ceilings, some of which have now been annexed as a second storey. It started off as a spice market, and is still a spice market, though over the years dried fruits, nuts, seeds and other delicacies, including Turkish Delight, have been added to the bill of fare, In recent years it's become more of a tourist attraction so now you can also find jewellery, pipes and other things visitors might like to buy.
The main entrance is in the south west corner, opening on to the Yeni Mosque.
The streets surrounding the bazaar have a commercial shine to them as well, especially Hasircilar Caddesi, which is where you can buy more spices and other kitchen related goodies.
Written by
Emilie Stokes.
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