Bazaar

Old Bazaar - Gjakova

The oldest and longest bazaar in Kosovo, a 1-kilometer cobblestone artery where centuries of craftsmanship meet vibrant modern nightlife.

Getting There

📍 Getting There: The bazaar spans the entire center of Gjakova. Easily reached on foot from any part of the city.

🕒 Open Hours: Shops 09:00-18:00; cafes 08:00 until late.

♿ Accessibility: Authentic, uneven cobblestones. Wheelchair access is challenging due to the bumpy surface.

Loacally Know as

Çarshia e Vjetër Gjakovë

Independent Arts & Cultural Spaces Curator

Arbër Shala

Insider tips

Must visit: Hani i Haraqisë (Haraqia Inn) for a traditional meal.
Shopping: Look for the remaining cradle makers (Djep).
Timing: Morning for artisans; return at night for the party atmosphere.
Anchor points: Hadum Mosque and Kulla e Drenit.

The Story

The Old Bazaar of Gjakova was established in the 16th century, growing around the Hadum Mosque as a center of trade and civic life. By the 17th century, it had become one of the most important commercial hubs in the region, with over 500 shops, inns, workshops, and public fountains.

The bazaar was known for its craft guilds, including coppersmiths, tailors, leatherworkers, and woodcarvers. Each guild had its own section, and the market operated under strict codes of quality and ethics. The area also included teahouses, bakeries, and guest inns, making it a full-service urban ecosystem.

During the 1999 war, the bazaar was severely damaged, with many shops burned and historic buildings destroyed. In the years since, it has been restored through local and international efforts, preserving its original layout and architectural style. Today, it remains a vibrant space where tradition meets modernity.

Visitors can stroll through stone-paved alleys, shop for handmade copperware, embroidered textiles, and local honey, or sit in a traditional café sipping Turkish coffee. The bazaar also hosts seasonal festivals and cultural events, reinforcing its role as a living heritage site.