In the heart of the
Ardabil city, this bazaar stands as old as the Islamic period. It's shape was described by the historians of 4th century AH. as a cross, extending in four directions with simply designed
domes. Most sections of the
bazaar have been constructed and renovated during the
Safavid Dynasty and
Zand period.
During the Safavid dynasty, Ardabil Bazaar was very commercially prosperous and was a center for commercial, social and political affairs. According to some documents, the bazaar is in the shape of a cross having a
mosque in its center.
The bazaar was divided into many different sections and each section was allocated to a special occupation, such as butchers bazaar and many other aisles. The whole complex of Ardabil Bazaar is covered with arched ceilings and simple domes. The lightening of the
bazaar is supplied through holes on the ceilings. The most important part of this wonder is Qeysariyeh Bazaar which is really a must see due to its historical atmosphere.
In and around the Ardabil Bazaar are many
caravansaries and inns, owned by the estate of the
Safavid Dynasty shrine, and mosques, some of which were endowed by Ata-Malik Juvayni (1226-1283) for the Shaykh Safi shrine.