The Grand Bazaar

Comprising some sixty or seventy streets and three thousand shops, the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is (according to some guidebooks) the largest covered bazaar in the world. In any case, it is the largest we've ever seen. And street after covered street, it took my breath away. (Fortunately, I managed to keep my camera!)

Entry to Grand Bazaar Grand Bazaar street Grand Bazaar shawl shop Grand Bazaar jeans

If you are a bit overwhelmed by these pictures, imagine how we felt in the middle of it!

Such a nice rug merchant

Please. Just come in and look around. You are not looking to buy anything? No problem. Please. Perhaps you would just like to see some Turkish rugs. Come in; come in! Do you know much about Turkish rugs? No? Please, come inside. I will show you some. There is no pressure; you don't have to buy anything. Would you like some tea? Here, do you like this rug? Where are you from? Boston? Oh, I have been to Boston...

rugs

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