Vakil Bazaar, Shiraz

Vakil Bazaar in Shiraz is one of the most famous traditional markets in Iran, built by order of Karim Khan Zand.

Introduction:
Vakil Bazaar in Shiraz is located in the center of Shiraz, next to the historical Vakil Mosque and Bath.
The construction of this market began in 1137 AH and was completed by order of Karim Khan Zand and lasted until 1156 AH.
This market was registered in the National Monuments of Iran in 1351.
The building materials used in its construction included plaster, lime, and brick.
Different parts of the market are called bazaars, crystal sellers, tailors, hat makers, sergeants, and swordsmiths, based on the products sold.
Vakil Bazaar in Shiraz

Architecture:
The architecture of this building was inspired by the Qeysarieh Bazaar in Lar and the Bazarche Boland in Isfahan, built by Shah Abbas the Great.
The spaces of this market are divided into three sections: the passage (customer traffic), the shop area (2 steps above ground level), and the shop space.
The market has 5 entrance doors located on its four sides.
The two market corridors also intersect each other like a cross.
At this intersection, the four souq is located on a vestibule.
The four souq has a solid arch that is decorated with several brick bergamots.
In the vestibule of the market, there are also square shops on two floors.
The shops are often designed on two floors and have vestibules.
The main branches of the market are the northern and southern rows.

Different parts of the market:
The most popular part of this market is the southern row, known as the bazaar row, which extends from the four souq to the Moshir Palace.
To the west of the four souq, there are the carpet sellers and apothecaries, where you can find handmade carpets.
From Chahar Souq towards Saray Moshir, there is a street called Shamshirgarha, which used to be a place to sell cold weapons.
But today it is dedicated to nomadic handicrafts and tailors.
In Qeshmat Chahar Souq, you can buy cookies, Fasa rice bread, Yokheh bread, and Larestan Muscati.
You can also easily find other Shiraz souvenirs such as various alcoholic beverages, khatams, and inlays in this market.

Other information:
Address: Due to the different entrances to this market, it is possible to enter from Zand, Taleghani, and Lotfali Khan streets. But the main entrance is Zand Street and the eastern side of the Mayor’s Square.

Have you ever shopped at Shiraz’s Vakil Bazaar? Share your experience with us.

You can also get to know other shopping centers in Shiraz on Asan Tour.