Sandalyeciler Bazaar, Istanbul: A Hidden Marketplace of Traditional Craftsmanship

Tucked away in the heart of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, Sandalyeciler Bazaar is a fascinating historic market known for its deep-rooted woodworking tradition, antique furniture, and handcrafted goods. Dating back to the Ottoman era, this lesser-known yet culturally significant bazaar has been a center for chair-making ("sandalye" means chair in Turkish), carpentry, and fine craftsmanship for centuries.

Even today, the bazaar retains its authentic Ottoman-era charm, offering visitors a glimpse into Istanbul’s historic trade life, where skilled artisans continue to produce and sell handmade wooden furniture, antiques, and decorative objects.

The History of Sandalyeciler Bazaar

A Marketplace for Ottoman Craftsmanship

The origins of Sandalyeciler Bazaar date back to the expansion of the Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) in the 15th and 16th centuries, during the reign of the Ottoman sultans. The bazaar was specifically dedicated to chair-makers and furniture craftsmen, who supplied mosques, palaces, and homes with finely crafted wooden pieces.

During the height of the Ottoman Empire, the artisans of Sandalyeciler were considered masters of woodworking, producing intricately designed chairs, stools, and tables made from walnut, oak, and cedar wood. Many of these pieces featured traditional Ottoman motifs, mother-of-pearl inlays, and hand-carved details, making them highly valuable.

A Hub for Antique and Handmade Furniture

While originally focused on chair-making, Sandalyeciler Bazaar gradually expanded to include other forms of furniture, decorative woodwork, and antiques. By the 19th and early 20th centuries, it became a well-known hub for antique collectors, furniture restorers, and craftsmen specializing in Ottoman-era wooden artifacts.

Even today, visitors can find beautifully restored furniture, vintage wooden doors, decorative panels, and handcrafted accessories, all reflecting the rich craftsmanship traditions of Istanbul’s artisan past.

Architectural Features of Sandalyeciler Bazaar

A Historic Bazaar with an Ottoman Atmosphere

Unlike the larger, more touristy sections of the Grand Bazaar, Sandalyeciler Bazaar maintains its old-world charm, featuring:

1. Narrow Alleyways and Historic Shops

• The bazaar consists of small wooden and stone shopfronts, each packed with handcrafted wooden goods and antiques.

• The narrow, maze-like alleys create a cozy and intimate shopping experience, transporting visitors back to the Ottoman era.

2. Traditional Ottoman Woodworking Studios

• Many shops have open workshops, where visitors can see artisans cutting, carving, and assembling wooden furniture using traditional methods.

• The sounds of hammers, chisels, and saws fill the air, reminding visitors of the bazaar’s long history of craftsmanship.

3. A Blend of Old and New

• While many shops sell antiques and historical reproductions, others offer modern handcrafted furniture with classic Ottoman-inspired designs.

What Can You Find in Sandalyeciler Bazaar?

Although small compared to other sections of the Grand Bazaar, Sandalyeciler Bazaar is a treasure trove for collectors, antique lovers, and furniture enthusiasts. Some of the unique items you can find include:

• Handmade Ottoman-style chairs, stools, and benches

• Antique wooden furniture and vintage doors

• Decorative wooden panels with Islamic calligraphy and geometric designs

• Hand-carved mirrors, picture frames, and jewelry boxes

• Traditional Turkish coffee tables and wooden trays

• Restored Ottoman-era furniture pieces

Whether you're searching for a unique souvenir, a statement furniture piece, or a rare antique, Sandalyeciler Bazaar offers an authentic and historic shopping experience unlike any other in Istanbul.

The Role of Sandalyeciler Bazaar in Ottoman and Modern Turkish Economy

An Important Marketplace in Ottoman Istanbul

During the Ottoman period, furniture-making was an elite craft, and many of the chairs and tables produced in Sandalyeciler Bazaar were used in palaces, government buildings, and wealthy homes. The bazaar played a crucial role in supplying Istanbul with high-quality handcrafted wooden goods, making it a key part of the city’s trade network.

A Living Artisan Community Today

Despite changes in production methods over time, Sandalyeciler Bazaar remains an important location for traditional furniture makers, restorers, and antique dealers. Many shops are still family-owned businesses, passed down through generations, keeping the art of Ottoman-style woodworking alive.

Today, the bazaar attracts:

• Antique collectors searching for rare Ottoman furniture

• Interior designers and decorators looking for authentic handmade pieces

• Tourists and visitors interested in Istanbul’s traditional crafts

• Locals restoring their family heirloom furniture

Visiting Sandalyeciler Bazaar: Location and Travel Tips

Where is Sandalyeciler Bazaar Located?

Sandalyeciler Bazaar is located within the Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) in the Fatih district of Istanbul. It is within walking distance of:

• Beyazıt Square (5-minute walk)

• Süleymaniye Mosque (10-minute walk)

• Spice Bazaar (15-minute walk)

• Eminönü and the Golden Horn (20-minute walk)

How to Get There?

• By Tram: Take the T1 tram line to Beyazıt-Grand Bazaar Station, then walk inside the Grand Bazaar.

• By Metro: Take the M2 metro line to Vezneciler Station, then walk about 10 minutes.

• By Taxi: A taxi from Sultanahmet or Taksim takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Best Time to Visit

• The Grand Bazaar is open Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (closed on Sundays).

• The best time to visit is in the morning when the market is less crowded.

• If you want to see artisans at work, weekdays are better than weekends.

Tips for Visitors

• Bargaining is expected! Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices, especially for furniture and antiques.

• Ask about the history of items—many shop owners have fascinating stories about their pieces.

• Be prepared to explore—some of the best treasures are found in hidden corners of the bazaar.

Why Visit Sandalyeciler Bazaar?

If you’re looking for a unique and authentic shopping experience in Istanbul, Sandalyeciler Bazaar is a must-visit destination. Unlike the more touristy sections of the Grand Bazaar, this historic marketplace offers:

✅ Handcrafted furniture and wooden decor made using traditional Ottoman techniques.
✅ A glimpse into Istanbul’s artisan past, with skilled craftsmen still at work.
✅ Antique and vintage treasures for collectors and design enthusiasts.
✅ A peaceful and less crowded shopping experience compared to the main bazaar streets.

For history lovers, antique collectors, and those who appreciate fine craftsmanship, Sandalyeciler Bazaar is a hidden gem in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, where art, history, and tradition come together.