Bazaar of Kashan
One of the most important monuments in Kashan is a valuable bazaar in the Kashan city that created in the Fath-Ali Shah Qajar period, which is called Bazaar of Kashan. This bazaar belongs to the Safavid era and was registered as one of the Iran's National Monuments in 1976. It has included more than 40 historical buildings in itselfand its south entrance is Kamal al-Molk Square and its north entrance is the beginning of Darvazeh Dowlat Square.
Description
This ancient bazaar is one of the most spectacular markets in Iran. It is located in the city center and is a popular destination for tourists and also is a unique place where guests can experience the real lifestyle of Iranians.
This historical bazaar, is one of the oldest structures of Kashan. Bazaar of Kashan starts from the middle of Baba-Afzal street and ends at around Darvazeh-Dowlat area. The bazaar has gained its significance by its placement alongside of the ancient trading routes and its organized architectural spaces. Notable feature of the Bazaar is the network of water canals so-called “qanats”, that supply ponds and fountains, making the air inside the bazaar cool and fresh.
History of Kashan Bazaar
This Bazaar is believed to be built under the rule of Seljuq dynasty in the 10th-11th century. However, the main reconstruction was implemented during Safavid era. After 800 years of being a center of trade, the bazaar is still operating. Some parts of the bazaar were renovated – like Aminoddole Caravansaray, but some corners keep the original spirit of the bazaar.
Sections of Bazaar of Kashan
This ancient bazaar includes orders (the main path of bazaar), categories (different classes), corridors, Khan house (a merchant house that had the general role of sales), Khanbar or Kalanbar (a place for collecting and storing goods and manipulating them), Timcheh (the center of several houses or merchant houses), Kaisarieh (a place with a separate door to do art and delicate works like goldsmithing and needle works) and stores.
Architecture
The architecture of Kashan Bazaar is one of the most interesting things about it. Due to its long history, Bazaar of Kashan was rebuilt and completed during the time. So here you can see ancient brick walls and newly restored parts. Kashan Bazaar has two main streets and lots of small alleys. Away from the streets and shops, there are mosques, bathhouses, caravansarays and even tombs.
Opening hours
The opening hours of this bazaar are from 09.00 am to 120.00 pm and 16.30 pm to 20.00 pm except fridays. This bazaar is an old bazaar in the center of the city of Kashan.