The Egyptian Bazaar (also known as the Spices Bazaar or Mısır Çarşısı) is a historic market in the center of Istanbul, Turkey. It offers a wide range of goods that are particularly attractive to tourists.
The Egyptian Bazaar is one of the oldest and most famous Istanbul markets, dating back to the 17th century. The market is located in the Eminönü district, near the Galata Bridge and the Golden Horn, and is surrounded by other historical landmarks. It is the second most famous Istanbul market (the first being the Grand Bazaar).
The widest range of products here includes spices and herbs, such as saffron, sumac, and paprika, which are popularly used in Turkish cuisine. There is also a wide assortment of dried fruits, nuts, and Turkish sweets. For example, you can buy a large variety of the treat called lokum by weight.
The atmosphere of the market is interesting. From morning, it is bustling with sellers and buyers, and the colorful stalls and exotic scents of spices and herbs create a lively and pulsating environment. However, the downside can also be overcrowding, as it is indeed a popular place located in the middle of the historical center.
Another interesting fact is the name, as the word “mısır” has a double meaning in Turkish: “Egypt” and “corn”. Therefore, it is sometimes incorrectly translated as the Corn Bazaar.
Construction of the Egyptian Bazaar began in 1660, after a great fire that destroyed many districts in the city. It was completed five years later. The building itself is part of the New Mosque complex. Revenues from the rental of shops inside the bazaar building were used for the maintenance of the mosque. Today, there are over 85 shops in the market, making it one of the busiest places in Istanbul.
Happy shopping!
More information can be obtained by clicking on the map link:
Accommodation in Istanbul
I wholeheartedly endorse the Mest Hotel located directly in the heart of Istanbul. The hotel is elegantly renovated, the breakfasts are incredible and the views are spectacular. I last stayed here in the fall of 2022 and will definitely be back again.
