Isfahan Historic Bazaar

Isfahan Historic Bazaar

Isfahan Historic Bazaar is a mesmerizingly decorated portal that opens to a rich cultural museum, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of the city while serving as a bustling marketplace for goods.

History

This sprawling covered traditional bazaar has been built over centuries in Isfahan. Some parts of Bazaar, particularly those near the Jameh Mosque, date back more than a thousand years, while the sections close to Naqsh-e Jahan Square were constructed during the early 17th century under the reign of Shah Abbas the Great during the expansion of the capital.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Isfahan Historic Bazaar encompasses a vast collection of market lines, caravanserais, teachers, and schools located between the Jameh Mosque and the renowned Naqsh-e Jahan Square. While the primary entrance lies on the northern side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, featuring a beautifully decorated portal known as the Qeysarieh Portal adorned with a fine mural painting by Reza Abbassi, Shah Abbas the Great’s favorite painter, there are many other entrances spread across the bazaar due to its vast area.

The clever architecture of Isfahan Historic Bazaar, with its arched structures allowing sunlight to filter in, provides a warm ambiance in winter and a cool escape during the summer. Wandering through the market lines filled with an array of items such as Persian carpets, spices, dried fruits, and more, becomes an exciting and fulfilling experience for every visitor, immersing them in the traditional charm of shopping in Isfahan’s historical bazaar. Moreover, visitors can relax in teahouses and traditional restaurants offering a wide variety of choices for traditional Persian cuisine, providing a refreshing break.

Visiting Hour

There is no fixed time to visit Isfahan Historic Bazaar, as long as the shops are open, visitors can explore its wonders. However, one should expect to lose track of time while wandering through the appealing sections of this enchanting marketplace.