The covered Bazaar is one of the most fascinating and irresistable attractions of Istanbul.No directions need be given for a stroll through the Bazaar, for it is a labyrinth in which one takes delight in getting lost and finding one's way out, after who knows how many many purchases and other adventures.The Covered Bazaar is a fairly regular structure- which makes it even more maze-like and confusing in practice.It is a small city in itself; according to a survey made in 1880 the Bazaar contained at that time 4399 shops, 2195 ateliers, 497 stalls, 12 storehouses, 18 fountains, 12 mescits , as well as a larger church, a primary school and a turbe.The number of commercial establishments would appear to be about the same now, in addition to which there have been added several new institutions, including half a dozen restorants, two banks, plus a toilet and inormation center for lost tourists.

The Kapali Carsi was established on its present site and covering almost the same area by Sultan Mehmet II a few years after the conquest.Although it has been destroyed several times by fires, the most recent in 1954, the Bazaar is essentially the same in structure and appearence as it was when it was first built four centuries ago. A half century ago the Bazaar was more quaintly picturesque; and stocked with more unusual and distinctive wares than it is today. But even now, inspite of the intrusion of modern goods, there is still much to be found that is ancient and local and genuine.Shops selling the same kind of things tend to be congregated together in their own streets; thus there is a fine colonnaded street of oriental rug-merchants, whose wares range all the way from magnificient museum pieces to cheap modern imitations.Here too are sold brocades and damasks, antique costumes, and the little embroidered towels so typical Turkish.There are streets of jewelers, gold-smiths and silver-smiths, of furniture dealers, haberdashers, shoemakers and ironmongers.In short every taste is catered to; one has but to wander and inspect and bargain.Bargaining is most important; nobody expects to receive price first asked, and part of the fun consists in making a good bargain.Almost all of the dealers speak half a dozen languages, and there is a little difficulty in communication.But time is essential; a good bargain can rarely be struck in a few moments- often it requires a leisurely cup of coffee, freely supplied by the dealer.

In the center of the Bazaar is the great domed hall known as the Old Bedesten.This is one of the original structures survivng from Fatih's time.Then, as now, it was used to house the most precious wares, for it can be securely locked and guarded at night.Some of the most interesting and valuable objects in the Bazaar are sold here; brass and copper of every description, often old and fine; ancient swords and weapons, antique jewelery and consumes, fine glassware, antique coins, and classical and Byzantine pottery and figurines.