Old Bazaar of Peja
A vibrant, pedestrianized Ottoman market district famous for its winding lanes, goldsmiths, and the traditional "Qeleshe" felt-hat makers.
Must Do: Visit the last Qeleshe maker.
Food: Try Qebapa me Kajmak.
Landmark: Bajrakli Mosque is central.
Directions: Walkable from the main square; the main street is "Çarshia e Gjatë."
Photography: Highly recommended; best captured during golden hour or market hours
Alternate Names: Çarshia e Vjetër, Peja Old Market, Peja Bazaar
Getting There: Located in central Peja, walkable from the main square, train station, and nearby landmarks like Bajrakli Mosque and Gocka Tower
Open Hours: Shops: 09:00–18:00; Cafes: open late.
Terrain: Flat, paved streets.
Wheelchair: Generally accessible.
Location: Peja City Center, along the Lumbardhi river.
Last update
Jan 11, 2026
The Story
The Old Bazaar of Peja was established during the Ottoman period as a central hub for trade, craftsmanship, and civic life. Its layout followed classical Ottoman urban planning, with narrow cobbled streets, stone-and-wood shopfronts, and proximity to religious and civic buildings.
Historically, the bazaar hosted blacksmiths, tailors, jewelers, and spice merchants, serving both local residents and travelers en route to Rugova Gorge and Montenegro. The Bajrakli Mosque, built in 1471, anchors the bazaar’s spiritual axis, while the Gocka Tower and Haxhi Beu Hammam reflect its residential and communal dimensions.
The bazaar was severely damaged in 1943 when Italian forces burned much of Peja during World War II. It was rebuilt, only to suffer further destruction during the 1999 Kosovo War. Restoration efforts in the 2000s, led by local authorities and international donors, focused on preserving its Ottoman character while adapting it for modern use.
Today, the Old Bazaar is a pedestrian-only zone filled with artisan shops, cafés, bookstores, and cultural venues. It hosts seasonal festivals, art exhibitions, and civic events, and remains a favorite destination for both locals and tourists. Its blend of history, commerce, and community makes it one of Kosovo’s most evocative urban spaces.
