Explore Kerman Bazaar: The Historic Heart of the City

The Kerman Bazaar is one of the oldest and most splendid marketplaces in Iran, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich commercial and social history of the region. Dating back to the Safavid era, this sprawling bazaar complex is a masterpiece of traditional Persian commercial architecture and continues to be the beating heart of Kerman’s economic life.

Historical Significance

The Kerman Bazaar has played a vital role in the city’s history for over 600 years. As an important center along the Silk Road trading routes, Kerman became a hub for the exchange of goods, particularly textiles, spices, and Kerman’s famous carpets. The bazaar expanded significantly during the Safavid period (16th-18th centuries) and has undergone various renovations and expansions over the centuries while maintaining its historical character.

Architectural Features

• Covered Pathways: The bazaar features long, vaulted passages with masterful brickwork that provides protection from Kerman’s harsh desert climate.
• Caravanserais: Several historic caravanserais (traditional inns) are integrated into the bazaar, where merchants once stayed during their trading journeys.
• Timchehs: Specialized sections of the bazaar with spectacular domed ceilings, often housing specific types of goods like carpets or textiles.
• Traditional Workshops: Many sections of the bazaar still contain traditional craft workshops where artisans practice centuries-old techniques.

What to See

• Ganjali Khan Complex: Located within the bazaar, this 17th-century complex includes a bathhouse, mosque, mint, and caravanserai, all arranged around a beautiful courtyard.
• Vakil Bathhouse: A historic bathhouse that has been converted into a museum, showcasing traditional bathing customs with lifelike wax figures.
• Carpet Section: Kerman is famous for its distinctive carpet designs, and the bazaar’s carpet section offers some of the finest examples of this traditional craft.
• Spice Markets: Colorful displays of aromatic spices that have been traded in these stalls for centuries.

Shopping Experience

The bazaar is an excellent place to purchase authentic Iranian crafts and souvenirs:

• Kerman Carpets: Known for their high quality and distinctive patterns, these carpets are among the most prestigious in Iran.
• Pateh: A unique form of embroidery specific to Kerman, featuring colorful needlework on wool fabric.
• Copper Handicrafts: Traditionally engraved copper vessels and decorative items.
• Local Sweets: Kerman is known for its unique confections, including kolompeh (a date cookie) and various nut-based sweets.

Best Time to Visit

The bazaar is most lively in the morning hours when all shops are open and locals are doing their daily shopping. Avoid visiting during prayer times (especially Friday mid-day) when many shops may be closed. The cooler months of spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for exploring the bazaar.

Visitor Tips

• Bargaining is expected when shopping in the bazaar, but do so respectfully.
• Get lost in the labyrinthine passages – some of the most interesting discoveries are made in the less touristy sections.
• Consider hiring a local guide who can explain the historical significance of different sections and buildings.
• Try the local tea served in the bazaar’s traditional teahouses for an authentic experience.

Nearby Attractions

• Jameh Mosque of Kerman: A historic mosque with beautiful architecture located near the bazaar.
• Kerman’s Museums: Several museums showcasing the region’s history and culture are within walking distance of the bazaar.