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Granada’s bazaar, or Alcaiceria, is packed with all sorts of treasures.
Go to any grand old city or town of Arabic origins and you might find a bazaar or souk. Many of these enclosed marketplaces have traditionally housed a collection of shops, often slotted into tight quarters that are navigated by a maze of paths. What does this have to do with Granada? The Spanish city was, in fact, one of the most important on the Iberian Peninsula during Arabic rule, and, as such, has a bazaar of its very own.
Called the Alcaicería, Granada’s bazaar has ancient roots dating back to the 15th century, when it was built during the times of Muslim rule. Back then, it was a massive network of some 200 shops, all enclosed by gates that prevented horses from entering by day, and also shut out intruders at night. Unfortunately, come the mid 1800s, a fire, caused by a vendor that sold matches, completely destroyed the historic marketplace. After this, the new Alcaicería was constructed – the result was a smaller version built in a neo-Arabic and romantic style.
Today’s bazaar is situated between Plaza Nueva and Plaza Bib-Rambla. This is the place to go to find classic souvenirs, from silly key chains to artisanal products like the famous Fajalauza ceramics with their characteristic blue and green colors. You’ll also find other typically regional wares, including colorful lanterns as well as Moroccan herbs and spices.
Explore this part of town and more on a Granada and Albaicin Walking Tour, during which you’ll visit the bazaar, along with the cathedral, and, of course, the Albaicin, the famously once-Moorish hillside neighborhood. Or, see even more of the city by joining a Granada Combo Tour With Hop-on, Hop-off Train.
- Contributed by Erin Ridley
Granada’s Bazaar, the Alcaicería from Andalucia & Costa del Sol Things to Do
