The Middle East’s 5 Most Colorful Markets, in Pictures

From amber-colored spices and fuchsia candies to gleaming green olives and orange threads of wool, no region has more colorful markets than the Middle East.

1. Jemaa el-Fnaa, Marrakech

The city’s red walls stand as a perfect backdrop to highlight the colors of one of the Middle East’s most famous markets, where colorful leather shoes, fresh-dyed wool and scented natural herbs blend to create a reverie-like atmosphere.

 

 

 

2. Bzoriyah market, Damascus

Located to the south of the Umayyad Mosque inside the old walled city of Damascus, Al-Buzuriyah is a haven for sweet lovers and spice seekers.

3. Grand Bazaar, Istanbul

Is there a symbol that more perfectly blends with Istanbul as the turkish carpet? The Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest markets worldwide, is a labyrinth of alleys where everything, from colorful lamps to magical “love teas” can be found.

 

5. Khan el Khalili, Cairo

Cairo’s iconic market is known for its antique and silver stores, framed by colorful quilts sold at every corner. But to the visitor, the best surprise are perhaps the surrounding streets of Attaba, where old, dusty toys interact with led-screens and gigantic olives to the amusement of passers-by.

 

 

5. Jerusalem’s Old City Markets

Fresh pomegranate juice, scented oil perfumes, rosewater pastries, and pistachio cookies: the markets of Jerusalem’s old city are a celebration of color –and flavor.

 

Photos by Valentina Primo, Majd Khanji and Lena Kassicieh.