How did bazaars start?

The bazaar first appeared along the important trade routes. The constant flow of foreign and exotic goods, along with travelers, gave rise to systems of haggling and trade within the cities themselves. Special areas of cities were eventually designated as areas of trade, and the first bazaars were established.

What is a traditional bazaar?

The traditional bazaar consists of shops in vaulted streets closed by doors at each end, usually with caravanserais connected into the middle of the bazaar. In small towns, the bazaar is made up of a covered street, whereas in large cities it can take up miles of passageways.

Why was the bazaar important in the Middle East?

The bazaar first appeared in the Middle East, around the fourth century. At the time, the area was often at the axis of many important trade routes, which helped establish cities and ports. A constant flow of foreign and exotic goods, along with travelers, gave rise to systems of haggling and trade within the cities themselves.