Erbil's Historic Qaysari Bazaar Restored to Glory After Devastating Fire

By Ahora Qadi

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – Erbil Governor Omed Khoshnaw on Sunday announced the completion of the Qaysari Bazaar renovation project, marking a significant milestone in the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) efforts to revive the city's historic commercial heartland.

Khoshnaw confirmed that the renowned bazaar, one of Erbil’s most iconic cultural and economic landmarks, will soon reopen its doors fully to merchants and visitors, following the successful completion of the second and most critical phase of restoration.

Restoration Honors Heritage, Revives Commerce

The newly completed phase focused on rehabilitating the bazaar’s ancient core—an architectural treasure steeped in over a century of history. The governor noted that the refurbishment was carried out with a keen sensitivity to the market’s original aesthetic and structural design, incorporating both engineering enhancements and artistic refinements.

“This phase was not only about rebuilding,” Khoshnaw stated. “It was about preserving the soul of the bazaar, and we have ensured that its historical essence remains intact while bringing it up to modern standards.”

Merchants whose shops were destroyed in the previous fire are expected to receive their premises back in the coming days, paving the way for a full economic revival within the market’s storied alleyways.

A Swift Response to Tragedy

The renovation follows the catastrophic fire that swept through the Qaysari Bazaar on Apr. 5, 2024, destroying nearly 250 shops and seven storage units. The inferno dealt a heavy blow to the city's commercial and cultural fabric.

Immediately following the incident, Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani ordered the launch of a comprehensive reconstruction initiative. The project was financed through a 5.3 billion Iraqi dinar allocation from the Erbil governorate’s budget.

A Symbol of Cultural Identity

Nestled near the UNESCO-nominated Erbil Citadel, the Qaysari Bazaar is not only a bustling commercial center but also a living symbol of the city’s enduring heritage. Built more than 100 years ago, it is regarded as Erbil’s first official marketplace and has remained in continuous operation across generations.

The bazaar features specialized sections for gold, textiles, household goods, spices, and traditional handicrafts. It is particularly renowned for its folkloric offerings such as handwoven rugs, copperware, silver ornaments, and artisanal kitchen tools—items that continue to attract both locals and a steady stream of tourists on a daily basis.

Legacy of Resilience

Many of the vendors operating in the Qaysari Bazaar today are direct descendants of the original shopkeepers, inheriting not only their shops but also the spirit of traditional Kurdish trade and craftsmanship.

Previously covered by simple metal gable roofs, the market has undergone multiple transformations, but none as extensive or culturally significant as the current restoration.

Thanks to its unique architecture, proximity to the ancient citadel, and enduring marketplace charm, the Qaysari Bazaar stands as a beacon of Erbil’s historical and economic resilience—a place where heritage and commerce walk hand in hand.