10 Things to Do in Tarihi Çarşı (Historic Bazaar), Konya, Turkey
Konya is a city in south-central Turkey and the capital of Konya Province. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, and has been inhabited since at least the Neolithic period. Konya is known for its historical sites, such as the Tarihi Çarşı (Historic Bazaar) which is a bustling market that has been in operation since the 13th century. Here are 10 things to do in the Tarihi Çarşı.
1. Explore the Souks: The Tarihi Çarşı is home to a variety of souks, or traditional marketplaces. Here you can find everything from traditional Turkish carpets and textiles to jewelry, spices, and other souvenirs. The souks are a great place to find unique items and bargain for the best prices.
2. Visit the Mevlana Museum: The Mevlana Museum is a must-see for any visitor to Konya. The museum is dedicated to the life and teachings of the 13th century Sufi mystic, poet, and philosopher, Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi. The museum houses artifacts, manuscripts, and art related to Mevlana and his teachings.
3. Enjoy a Turkish Coffee: Turkish coffee is an important part of Turkish culture and can be found in many of the cafés in the Tarihi Çarşı. Enjoy a cup of coffee while you people watch and take in the sights and sounds of the bazaar.
4. Visit the Konya Archaeological Museum: The Konya Archaeological Museum is located in the bazaar and is home to a variety of artifacts from the Neolithic to the Ottoman periods. The museum also houses a collection of coins from various periods.
5. Shop for Spices: The Tarihi Çarşı is home to a variety of spice shops where you can find everything from saffron to sumac. Many of the shops are family-run and have been in business for generations.
6. Check out the Carpet Shops: The bazaar is home to a variety of carpet shops where you can find everything from traditional Turkish carpets to modern designs. The carpet shops are a great place to find unique and beautiful pieces.
7. Visit the Konya City Walls: The Konya City Walls are a great place to explore and learn about the city’s history. The walls date back to the Seljuk period and are a great place to take photos and enjoy the view of the city.
8. Take a Cooking Class: There are a variety of cooking classes available in the bazaar, where you can learn how to make traditional Turkish dishes. The cooking classes are a great way to learn more about Turkish cuisine and culture.
9. Visit the Grand Mosque: The Grand Mosque is one of the most impressive mosques in Konya and is located in the heart of the bazaar. The mosque is a great place to explore and learn about Islamic architecture and culture.
10. Try the Street Food: The Tarihi Çarşı is home to a variety of street food vendors, where you can find everything from kebabs to borek. The street food is a great way to experience the local cuisine and culture.
The Tarihi Çarşı is a great place to explore and experience the culture and history of Konya. Whether you are looking for souvenirs, unique items, or just want to enjoy the atmosphere, the bazaar has something for everyone.