Tabriz Carpet Bazaar: A Kaleidoscope of Colors!
Where Tradition and Artistry Come Together in a World-Famous Marketplace
Tabriz Carpet Bazaar (Mozaffariyeh Timcheh), situated in the Grand Bazaar of Tabriz, is the top-rated and widely-liked carpet market in the center of the city. Different kinds of genuine carpets, like silk handwoven ones, can be discovered in this Timcheh. It should be noted that a Timcheh is a significant Section of the market, usually covered, where a particular kind of merchandise is vended.
The Mozaffariyeh Timcheh, a major Timcheh in Iran, draws in traders and customers from both Iran and other countries. Besides the Mozaffariyeh Timcheh, there are additional Timchehs within the Tabriz Bazaar specifically for the trading of carpets, which we will introduce further.
Contents
History of Mozaffariyeh Timcheh
This Timcheh, founded by Haji Jafar Qazvini in 1305 under the Qajar dynasty, has a rich past as one of the oldest Timchehs in Tabriz Bazaar. Even though this structure was constructed by Haji Qazvini, it was named as Mozaffariyeh to pay tribute to the crown prince of that era, Mozaffar al-Din Mirza. The structure of this Timcheh has undergone changes over the years while maintaining its traditional atmosphere.
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Mourning Rituals in Mozaffariyeh Bazaar
In this market, people have also conducted mourning ceremonies for Imam Hussein. At present, the Tabriz Bazaar is dressed in black in the month of Muharram as part of the mourning ceremonies. The market will be shut down during the 8th to the 12th of Muharram.
Architecture of Mozaffarieh Timcheh
In addition to viewing and purchasing beautiful carpets, you can also enjoy the architecture of this timcheh, which is built in the Iranian architectural style. Upon entering, you will notice two very beautiful wooden doors. Inside the timcheh, there are around 26 shops arranged on two floors. You will see a number of small and large windows in various colors. The tall, brick, dome-shaped ceiling adds to the grandeur and magnificence of the timcheh, which has a height of 9 meters.
Handwoven carpets and carpet panel sellers are located on the first floor, while the second floor houses carpet restorers and designers. Just in front of the main entrance, there is a staircase that goes up to the second floor. Additionally, there is a large storage area for carpets on the lower level of the timcheh.
Items Available in the Tabriz Carpet Market
In special Timcheh dedicated to carpets, handwoven silk carpets along with Different varieties of carpet panels are sold. Some bazaars also offer different types of carpets like kilims and jajims.
Introduction to Types of Carpets in Mozaffarieh Timcheh
At Timcheh Mozaffarieh, a wide selection of carpets is available in terms of size, design, and material. The carpet designs feature a mix of traditional and contemporary patterns, many of which represent Iranian culture. The choice of each carpet depends on your taste and budget.
1. Knot Count
The knot count is a key factor in determining the price of a carpet. The value and price of a carpet increases with a higher knot count or fineness. This is due to the fact that a greater knot count signifies an increased utilization of wool and silk fibers in its weaving process.
2. Material and Quality
The material of a carpet is also a significant factor in deciding its price. A wool carpet typically costs less than a silk carpet, for instance.
3. Design and Color of Carpets
The designs of Tabriz carpets are very beautiful, featuring floral and intricate patterns, often made from colors derived from natural materials that enhance the carpet’s quality.
Interestingly, there are two tea houses located in this Timcheh where you can go to relax.
Other Timchehs in the Grand Bazaar that sell carpets include Timcheh Malek, Mirza Shafi, and Saray Mirza Jalil.
Malek Timcheh
In this timcheh, handcrafted carpets with authentic designs are sold. The architecture of this Timcheh is also very beautiful, allowing you to enjoy both shopping for carpets and admiring its architecture.
Mirza Shafi Timcheh
This timcheh specializes in the buying and selling of handcrafted carpets known as “rural weave,” produced by villagers. These carpets originate from the villages of East Azerbaijan Province.
Mirza Jalil Timcheh
In this beautiful Bazaar, in addition to traditional Iranian handwoven carpets, you can also find various types of kilims and jajims. A special type of kilim sold in this market is called “Sumac” or “Varni,” which is woven by the daughters of nomadic tribes. Sumak is a type of flat-weave kilim that is globally recognized for its authenticity, which has been confirmed by UNESCO.
Access to the Mozaffarieh Market
The market is situated in the western part of Tabriz Bazaar, adjacent to Tabriz Grand Mosque. Various public transportation options, including buses and taxis, as well as personal vehicles, can be used to access the Mozaffarieh Timche. If you plan to use parking, it’s good to know that there are several public parking lots around the Tabriz Bazaar. However, after parking, you will need to walk a bit to reach the market.
Opening Hours of the Tabriz Carpet Bazaar
The market operates from 9 AM to 6 PM every day. Nevertheless, during certain events like the days honoring Muslim Imams’ martyrdom and the month of Muharram, when Muslims mourn, it is probable that the market will not be open.
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Wrap up
This article aimed to provide sufficient information about the best carpet markets in Tabriz, especially the Mozaffarieh Timche. In this caravanserai, you can find various types of handwoven carpets with diverse designs. You can also enjoy the Iranian architecture of this cultural attraction.
We trust that this article will serve as a helpful manual for navigating the Tabriz carpet bazaar. During your stay in Tabriz, take the opportunity to explore other sights in the city and fully enjoy your journey. We are excited to have you visit Tabriz!
FAQs
What is the name of the Tabriz carpet market?
There are several specific Timchehs for buying carpets in Tabriz, but the most important one is the Tabriz Mozaffarieh Timcheh. Other significant Timchehs for buying and selling carpets include the Malek Timcheh, Mirza Shafi Timcheh, and Mirza Jalil Saray.
Where is the Mozaffarieh Timcheh located?
The market is situated in the western part of Tabriz Bazaar, adjacent to Tabriz Grand Mosque.
When was the Mozaffarieh Timcheh built?
This Timcheh was constructed in 1305, during the Qajar period by a person named Haj Jafar Qazvini.
What are the working hours of the Tabriz carpet market?
The market operates from 9 AM to 6 PM every day. Nevertheless, during certain events like the days honoring Muslim Imams’ martyrdom and the month of Muharram, when Muslims mourn, it is probable that the market will not be open.
