Arcaded Bazaar / Sipahiler Bazaar

The bazaar is a merchant's market, so don't expect fixed operating hours. Most shops are open after 10 AM, and some take a break during the midday heat. One visitor mentioned finding the bazaar closed when they went; going earlier in the day reduces this risk. In summer months, the afternoon heat can be intense, so morning or late afternoon is more comfortable to avoid both heat and crowds.

The bazaar is located on Mardin's 2nd Street, approximately 150 meters east of the Great Mosque, right next to the Reyhaniye Mosque. It will naturally appear on your path when exploring the historical peninsula, so no separate transportation planning is needed. Those arriving by car in the city center may find it difficult to park; the narrow surrounding streets are not very suitable for vehicle traffic. The easiest way is to approach by walking from Cumhuriyet Street.

The bazaar itself is short: you can walk from one end to the other in 20-30 minutes. But if you plan to shop and browse the stores, the time can easily extend to an hour. If you plan it with the Great Mosque, it easily fits as part of a half-day historical center tour.

After visiting the Great Mosque, walk east, and you will reach the bazaar. Since Reyhaniye Mosque is right next to it, you get two stops in the same walk. Kayseriye Bazaar and Coppersmiths' Bazaar are also nearby and can be combined as a historical bazaars route. Zinciriye Madrasa and Mardin Museum are also in the same area, pairing well for a half-day tour.

The bazaar sells local foods, handmade carpets-kilims, copper and silver craftsmanship products. Prices are generally stated to be reasonable. However, one visitor noted that Midyat is more affordable for specific brand products like Stanley; comparing prices before a major purchase is sensible. It's also a good idea to visit the Coppersmiths' Bazaar to compare regional handicrafts.

The ground is stone-paved and sometimes uneven, so choose comfortable shoes. One comment mentioned stone pieces in the streets awaiting repair, so careful walking is necessary. Parking can be difficult in the center, so plan to reach by walking instead of driving. Also, consider the possibility that the bazaar might be closed and prefer to go earlier in the day.

The arched corridor formed by the arcades gives a sense of depth when shot from the middle of the street. The cut-stone craftsmanship and wooden windows provide good material for detail shots. Even when the bazaar is closed, its exterior is preferred for photography, as one visitor specifically mentioned.