The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, built in the 15th century, is one of the largest covered markets in the world. The Bazaar is located East of Istanbul University, Beyazit campus. In ancient times there were the shops that gave their proceeds to St. Sophia Cathedral. In the period of the Ottoman Empire, the Sultan had ordered to be built in place of shops and an indoor market. It is believed that the market was founded in 1461. More precisely, in 1461 was built Domestic market that are inside the Covered market. But his exterior - Sandal-Bedesten was built later. During its existence, the market has expanded, and today has become similar to a small town, covered with a common roof. Huge Bazaar is a maze covers an area equal 30700 sq. m.

The Grand Bazaar is a huge complex, which has 2,600 stores, 65 streets, 22 gates, 24 private hotels and the market square, 2 indoor market, restaurants, mosques, fountains and eateries. There are more than 500 shops selling gold products. The owners of these shops pay rent for the month in the amount of 5-8$, therefore, the tactics of trading on the market is quite aggressive.

Popular shops selling jewellery, carpets, ceramics and spices. Many counters are combined into groups depending on the type of goods, with special areas for leather coats, jewelry, etc.

To enter the Grand Bazaar there are several gates, the most spectacular are considered to be the Gate Orosmane. They are made in the form of arches in the Moorish style. The arch is decorated with a marble fountain, which was created in the memory of what happened in 1954, the fire that burned a third of the market. It's located near La mosquée du Nuruosmaniye is the first Turkish structure built in the Baroque style.

Main street, Big Bazaar Street is considered Kalachnikov. It is at this glittering street a popular choice for many buyers. There are shops that sell jewelry made of silver and gold. If you turn right and go through the Old Bazaar, you can see an extraordinary collection of products from copper, gold, and antiquities.

The product is stored in two domed stone buildings located on the territory of the Grand Bazaar. One of the buildings in 1464, ordered the construction of Mehmed II. The Grand Bazaar was damaged during the earthquake in 1894. After the earthquake have been carried out. Currently, the Grand Bazaar daily comes from 250 000 to 400 000 customers.