Grand Bazaar in Istanbul

The Grand Bazaar is not far from the Süleymaniye Mosque. In the time of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent the buildings of the Grand Bazaar were made of wood but later they were replaced by stone ones. For about 500 years of its existence it turned from a regular market place into a true local attraction.

The territory of the Grand Bazaar occupies several quarters. And apart from shops, there are also 12 mosques and 18 fountains on its territory. The Grand Bazaar is considered the world`s largest covered market. It has over 60 pedestrian streets divided into districts. In one district they sell textiles, in the other district – leather goods, in the third district – foods and sweets and so on: gold, carpets, spices, souvenirs, etc.