Be prepared to learn the history of this unique trade center of Istanbul. The Grand Bazaar is one of the most popular shopping centers in Istanbul and has a very rich history. The history of the Grand Bazaar dates back to the 15th century. It was built in 1455 as the heart of the local clothing and jewelry trade.
By the order of the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, two stone buildings were built near the Hagia Sophia Mosque for merchants to exhibit and sell their products. In a short time, these two buildings became the commercial center of Istanbul and, over time, formed the huge complex we see today. The foundations of the Grand Bazaar were laid in 1460 and expanded over time. The bazaar, which was built of wood during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent, spread over an area of 30,700 square meters and became a large commercial center with 66 streets and 4,000 shops.
There was equality between all the shops in the Grand Bazaar. Besides the fact that the shops were of equal size, competition between sellers was prohibited. In each street, masters of different products were found in guilds. No salesman could put his counter in front of the shop and show the products to the crowd. Prices for products could not be higher than those determined by the state.
The Grand Bazaar has remained unchanged over the centuries. It has achieved its resistance against natural disasters thanks to its unique architecture. Istanbul's geographical location positioned the Grand Bazaar at the heart of commerce, making it the focal point of Mediterranean trade.
European travelers in the 17th and 19th centuries noted that the Grand Bazaar was unique in terms of its diversity, quality and quantity of products. This shows that the Grand Bazaar is not just a bazaar, but also a cultural heritage and symbol of trade. During the Ottoman period, Grand Bazaar merchants were placed in guilds. But over time, the number of merchants and shops could no longer be added. This situation helped preserve the historical texture of the Grand Bazaar and guild tradition.
The Grand Bazaar faced fires three times in 1546, 1651 and 1710. The bazaar, which was extensively damaged in the 1894 earthquake, has gone through a series of repair and restoration processes until today.
For anyone who visits Istanbul, getting lost in the colorful shops of the Grand Bazaar is a real experience. This place is not only for shopping but also for going on a historical journey. The Grand Bazaar is one of the most unique trade centers not only in Istanbul but in the whole world. Today, although the Grand Bazaar is still an important shopping center of Istanbul, its past characteristics have changed.