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Get ready to explore the Eastern Bazaar, one of Baku's most architecturally striking places, with a guide. Construction of this complex, which was started in 1980 and completed in 1982 with two projects by famous architects Uruzmak Revazov and Pavel Yarinovsky, was included in the list of historical and cultural monuments of local importance due to its design.
Our tour kicks off at the main entrance of the bazaar. As soon as you take your first step, you'll feel the impressive atmosphere of the domed architecture. The complex has a total of 16 domes; 3 of them are large and 13 are small. These domes aren't just an aesthetic element, but also important architectural details that determine the building's interior acoustics and use of natural light. With your guide, you'll learn about the building's design philosophy, its place in Soviet-era urban planning, and the transformation it's undergone to the present day.
The Eastern Bazaar reopened to visitors in 2022 after a comprehensive restoration. During the renovation, the building's original concept and architectural details were preserved. Subtle touches, like converting the old Cyrillic sign at the entrance to the Latin alphabet, are symbolic changes that bring the past and present together. During the tour, you'll have the chance to learn more about Baku's cultural evolution while listening to the story behind this transformation.
You'll find handmade products, local designer brands, spices, souvenirs, and traditional products while browsing the market. Your guide will tell you about the shopping culture, explain which products are locally produced, and what details you should pay attention to. There's no food or tasting service on the tour, but guests can shop if they want. During the tour, we'll share general information about the purchase and return processes.
The complex also hosts social and cultural events. From time to time, they host craft fairs, workshops, and social events. Restaurants and cafés such as Sharg Restaurant, Bazar Turkish Cuisine, Gusto Gourmet, and ZAFAR Coffee inside complete the lively atmosphere of the bazaar. During the tour, you'll learn about the concepts of these areas, but food service isn't included in the tour.
This guided walking tour, which lasts about 1.5 hours, is ideal for both architectural enthusiasts and visitors who want to understand Baku's cultural transformation. The Eastern Bazaar is a special place where the old and the new meet in harmony, and on this tour, you'll discover that the building is not only a shopping area but also a cultural icon.
