Bazaar, Old Town
Old Bazaar of Peja
A vibrant, pedestrianized Ottoman market district famous for its winding lanes, goldsmiths, and the traditional "Qeleshe" felt-hat makers.
Getting There
📍 Getting There: Located in central Peja along Çarshia e gjatë. Walkable from the main square, train station, and nearby landmarks.
🧭 Directions: Walkable from the main square; the main street is "Çarshia e Gjatë."
🕒 Open Hours: Shops 09:00-18:00; cafes open late.
♿ Accessibility: Flat, paved streets. Generally wheelchair accessible.
Independent Arts & Cultural Spaces Curator
Arbër Shala
Insider tips
Recommended: Visit the last Qeleshe maker.
Food: Try Qebapa me Kajmak.
Photography: Highly recommended; best during golden hour or market hours.
Loacally Know as
Qarshia e Vjetër e Pejës
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.
