Grand Bazaar of Tehran
The Grand Bazaar, located in Panzdah-e Khordad, dates back to the Safavid and Qajar eras. Throughout its history, the bazaar has been a hub for political, religious, and economic activities during various periods, including the Pahlavi, Qajar, and Safavi dynasties.
History
Sir Thomas Herbert, an English historian, wrote about the Grand Bazaar during the Safavid era in his travelogue. It was operational during this period and later covered with a roof during the reign of Naser al-Din Shah. The Grand Bazaar of Tehran was not only important for its economic significance but also played a crucial role in cultural, political, and social development during the Qajar and Pahlavi periods. During the constitutional period, vendors stood with the people against the government and gathered in the Imam Mosque within the Grand Bazaar. The Kafashan Bazaar, Abbas Abad Bazaar, Zargarha Bazaar, Chaharsuq-e-Bozorg, Ahangaran Market, and Mesgaran Market are some of the significant parts of the bazaar from the Qajar period.
Architecture of bazaar
The Tehran Grand Bazaar still boasts some stunning old sections that have been preserved over time. These areas are characterized by beautiful arches and domes that are pleasing to the eye. Similar to other markets in Iran, the Grand Bazaar contains narrow corridors, vaults, and domes, among other structures. The bazaar has undergone several changes over the years, with the addition of roofed areas to protect shoppers from the summer heat. Furthermore, new service spaces like coffee houses, baths, mosques, Zorkhaneh, Hussainiya, and taverns have been established in the heart of the bazaar. A notable feature is the octagonal space of Chaharsuq-e Bozorg, which dates back to 1807 and consists of a short circular dome adorned with beautiful plasterwork. Currently, the preserved old sections of the Grand Bazaar include Amir Bazaar, Chaharsuq-e Bozorg, and Sabze-Meydan.
Here are some significant sections of the Grand Bazaar in Tehran:
Sabze-Meydan is situated in the northern section of the bazaar, marking the beginning of the central area. In this location, you can find a variety of products such as carpets, home decor, traditional and fast food, as well as gold and jewelry. The name “Sabze-Meydan” derived from the Qajar era when vegetables were grown in the area. In Persian, “Sabzi” means vegetables.
The Jameh Mosque of Tehran is the oldest in the city and boasts seven shabestans and a pool.
The Malek House is a historical building with architecture dating back to the Qajar period. It was owned by Haj Hossein Agha Malek, a merchant from Mashhad.
The Saints Thaddeus and Bartholomew Church, also known as the Tehran Church, was constructed during the Zendiyeh period. It is a single-story building with a courtyard, porch, ceremony hall, a southeast corner room, and an eastern space. The church hall design is similar to those found in the Jolfa neighborhood of Isfahan.
The Shahid Chamran House Museum is located in the childhood home of Dr. Chamran. This museum exhibits personal belongings and paintings created by Dr. Chamran.
Visiting Hours of Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar of Tehran is open from Saturday to Wednesday, with operating hours from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The external sections of the market remain open until 8:00 p.m. On Thursdays, the shops located inside the bazaar close at 2:00 p.m., while the shops outside the bazaar close at 5:00 p.m.
