BAZAAR OF THE VAKIL (BAZAAR-E VAKIL)

Four large bazaars covered under brick vaults are grouped in this ensemble under Karim Khan Zand and designed to make Shiraz one of the country's major shopping centres. Considered one of the most beautiful, he is famous for his carpets, his nomadic fabrics and his spices. Several entrances are located in Vakil Square or along Dastqeib Street. It opens on the space dedicated to fabrics, especially carpets. Dozens of coloured fabrics are suspended on the ceiling. The vaulted ceiling isolated the maze of hot summer temperatures and winter fraîcheurs. The rays of light illuminate a shimmering fabric and a pyramide of spices. Among the fine printed fabrics, you will be spoilt for tablecloths, prayer mats and nomades carpets in the Fars region. There is a beautiful selection of Tapis carpets, which are more grossiers, but with shimmering and very solid colours. The market also houses a hammam dating from the Zand dynasty. South side, go to the second bazaar in the heart of the former Caravanserai-e Moshir. On site, craftsmen are engaged in the work of marquetry. It's also the right place to find beautiful silver jewelry. This small «bazaar in the bazaar» was built in 1871 at the request of the Vizier Moshir Ol-Molk. In addition to the merchants and workshops, it is home to a small café where it is particularly pleasant to dwell in the heart of bazaar.

Please note that the bazaar is closed on Fridays, but nothing prevents you from walking there. This is a good opportunity to detail the architecture of the vaults and take photos without suffering from the permanent rush of the other days.