Sahaflar Carsisi
The Sahaflar arşs (Old Book Bazaar) is a 15th-century book bazaar located between Fesçiler Gate and Beyazit Square in Istanbul's Fatih district. During the Ottoman period, bookstores were traditionally located near theological schools known as madrasahs. The bookstores were grouped together in a special section after the Bazaar was built in 1460.
The stores were severely damaged by an earthquake at the end of the 19th century and had to be relocated to their current location. In 1950, another disaster struck, this time a massive fire, which destroyed many of the Bazaar's valuable manuscripts. All of the bookshops were nationalized and rebuilt shortly after that.
Since Byzantine times, the Sahaflar arşs has been a book and paper market, but nowadays, it primarily sells tourist tat. A bust of Brahim Müteferrika (1674–1745), the first book printer in Turkey, stands in the center of the shady courtyard.
This is one of Turkey's most beautiful places, and it's ideal for book lovers. The second-hand book bazaar, Sahaflar Carsisi, is one of Istanbul's oldest markets. Except on Sundays, it is open every day.
Tips: Beware of fake items. Brush up your bargaining skills. Learn a few Turkish words and use them while shopping.
- Location: Sahaflar Carsisi, Turkey
- Things to do: Buy second-hand books and novels
- Timings: 9 am – 7.30 pm
