THE FIRST SHOPPING MALL IN THE HISTORY - THE GRAND BAZAAR

A shopping mall is a construction that brings all the brands together and enables consumers to walk among them. An ordinary shopping mall includes brands, cafés, restaurants and thereby is a popular spot for hanging out with friends. But have you ever considered when the first shopping mall established in the world?

Shopping malls are becoming more and more popular every day. Especially in Istanbul, I fear every neighborhood will have a shopping mall in its borders someday. In this regard, I assume you wouldn't be surprised if I say the first shopping mall is established in Istanbul, Turkey.

The Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey

Kapalı Çarşı, which is globally known as The Grand Bazaar, is considered the world's oldest shopping mall. The construction of the Grand Bazaar started in 1461 after Mehmet II conquered the Constantinople in 1453. Mehmet II rebuilt Constantinople into Istanbul, the capital city of Ottoman Empire.

The bazaar includes more than 3.000 shops that sell everything from carpet to jewelry. As the world's oldest shopping mall, The Grand Bazaar remains its popularity. According to My Modern Net, it was the most visited tourist attraction in the world and boasted over 91 million annual shoppers.

It is one of the most known touristic destinations in Turkey and is seen on Netflix's 'The Protector'. The Grand Bazaar is a must-see place if you travel to Istanbul. It would be a shame if you won't visit one of the oldest surviving shopping centers in the world. By the way, bargaining (Pazarlık in Turkish) is a part of shopping in Turkey. Thus, don't hesitate to bargain!

Lastly, here is a music video from my childhood that shot in the Grand Bazaar. #Throwback.

(Ahu Gözlüm by Ayna)

Emel
Dec 2018