The Spice Market: Aromas & Flavors of the Orient
The Spice Market was erected in 1660 as part of the imperial New Mosque complex. It’s name in Turkish (Mısır Çarşısı) means “Egyptian Market” as it was constructed using revenues of tax from Ottoman Egypt and the goods sold inside were mainly imported from Egypt or India. This covered market served as the Ottoman capital’s principal center for spice trade arriving via Mediterranean sea routes.
Highlights of the Spice Market
Pyramids of Spices & Exotic Teas
Individual stores int he halls of this historic market keep various ingredient in burlap sacks and glass display cases:
- Rare Spices: Authentic Iranian saffron, aromatic Sumac, Aleppo pepper, dried oregano and ground cumin are amongst some of the spices.
- Custom Herbal Teas: Jasmine tea, winter wellness infusions, dried rosebud teas and pomegranate blends.
- Dried Fruits & Nuts: Iranian pistachios, dried figs from Izmir, stuffed dates and roasted hazelnuts.
Gourmet Turkish Delight (Lokum) & Edible Souvenirs
The Spice Market is the ultimate place to sample and purchase authentic Turkish Delight (Lokum). You may remember this sweet making an appearance on the movie “Narnia” as the witch offers Turkish Delight to tempt one of the children. You can find fresh artisanal rolls made of natural fruit juices, honey, double roasted Antep pistachios, walnuts and edible rose petals. Most shopkeepers offer complimentary samples before vacuum sealing your selections for travel.
Vendors craft gourmet Turkish Delight enriched with double roasted pistachios, pomegranate and rosewater.
Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi & Surrounding Street Markets
Just outside the market is the iconic Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi coffee roaster. A queue of locals gather for freshly roasted, finely ground Turkish coffee. The surrounding narrow streets feature traditional cheese shops, cured meats (pastrami and spiced cured meat) and household goods.
Location & Travel Guide
The Spice Market is located in the Eminonu neighborhood of the Fatih district. It is very close to the Galata Bridge and adjacent to the New Mosque.
Practical Travel Tips:
- How to Get There: Take the T1 Tramline to the Eminonu station. For those arriving by ferry, the market is a 2 minute walk from the Eminonu ferry piers.
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) on weekdays offer a peaceful atmosphere before tourist groups and afternoon local shoppers arrive.
- Hours & Days: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Opens at 9:30 AM on Sundays). May be closed on official religious holidays.
Located at the docks of Eminonu, the market connects history with Istanbul's vibrant waterfront.
