Egyptian Bazaar

About Egyptian Bazaar

Food market in Istanbul, Turkey

The Egyptian Bazaar, or Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi), is the second-largest traditional market in Istanbul after the Grand Bazaar and the most famous covered market after it, in the Eminonu quarter of Fatih on the Golden Horn beside the New Mosque (Yeni Cami). Construction began in 1597 under Sultan Murad III and was completed in the mid-seventeenth century as part of the mosque complex; it is called the Egyptian Bazaar because its shop rents were funded from the taxes of the Ottoman province of Egypt, and because many of its goods arrived from Egypt along the spice route. The bazaar is an L-shaped building roofed by a row of domes, lined with dozens of shops piled with colourful spices, herbs, tea, Turkish coffee, Turkish delight, nuts, dried fruit, cheese, olives and Anatolian honey, as well as essential oils and gifts. Around it in the surrounding lanes spread the lively Eminonu street markets for food, kitchenware and garden plants. Though touristy and more expensive than other districts even after haggling, it is one of the most delightful experiences of scent and colour in Istanbul, and a walk through it with Galata Bridge and the New Mosque is a classic of any visit to the city.

Where:

Istanbul, Türkiye