Alcaiceria of Granada
The name of the Alcaicería dates back to the time of Emperor Justinian. He gave the Arabs the right to sell silk, so they thanked him by naming these markets 'al-Kays-ia' (place of Cesar). Later, trade was extended to other textile and objects. The Granada Grand Bazaar was formed by more than two hundred stores, forming a grid of streets. Its ten doors were guarded by chains and guards, to prevent the passage of horses and to ensure the safety of valuable goods in the Alcaiceria.
The Alcaicería of Granada stretched from what is today Plaza Nueva to Plaza de Bib-Rambla and remained that way until a fire in 1843 destroyed it completely.
Later a smaller replica of the Great Bazar was built, occupying only a small part of the original space. Despite this it stillretains features of the Arab souks and memories of what was the activity of the silk market.
Today it remains an important commercial area and is dedicated to the sale of souvenirs. It contains everything from Arab grenadine crafts to textiles, lanterns, wood carvings, paintinga, inlaid wood, tea sets and leather amongst others.
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