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The Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar and the shops in between total more than 4,000 shops--each with someone calling out to get your attention as you pass by. Certainly an overwhelming experience, but rich in history (dating back to the 1400s).
The Grand Bazaar was originally founded by Mehmet II in 1461 in order to provide traders with a safe and orderly place to conduct business. It's one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. It is well known for its jewelry, hand-painted ceramics, carpets, embroideries, spices, and antique shops.
There are a total of 65 streets and 18 portals, eight of these are grand portals. The bazaar attracts between 250,000-400,000 daily visitors and has over 25,000 employees.
The Bazaar was originally made of wood. It was burnt down five times, the most serious damage was inflicted during the fires of 1546 and 1651. The market was enlarged during the reign of Suleymaniye I and rebuilt to the present plan in 1701. A 1954 fire destroyed more than half of the bazaar.
Almost all of Dhaka's supplies are distributed from this bazaar, located right beside a five star hotel and a major business hub.
As you can guess, this is where dreams go to die, with despair and grubbiness accompanying them to their resting places. People work day and night here, supplying a thriving yet dying city all it needs to go on for another day.
Truth be told, it's not that bad. There's a sense of color and personality to this place, which you might initially miss. Given time, the place (sort of) connects with you, offering interestoring stories from fascinating people.