COVERED MARKET

The foundation of covered market was laid in year 1461. Covered market with its nearly 60 narrow streets, shops over 3600 like a giant labyrinth is an unique center that has to be seen in Istanbul. This covered site almost like a city has developed and enlarged with in the time. There were 5 mosques, 1 school, 7 founts, 10 wells, 1 river, 1 fountain, and 1water tank with a fountain, 18 gates and large commercial buildings in it up to latest times. The streets of surrounding of the old two structures with thick walls and covered by a series of domes dating back to 15th century were covered and annexes were made and converted in to a shopping center. In the past here was a bazaar where certain professions took place in each street and their handwork manufacturing was under close inspection and where the commercial ethics and conventions were respected very much. All kinds of valuable fabrics, jewelry, and gun, antique were put in to sale in full confidence by the families who were specialized in their fields for many generations. Although the Covered Market which suffered from earthquake and a few great fires at the end of former century was repaired, its some features have changed.