The Old Bazaar of Gjirokastra is the center of the old town, with shops, bars and restaurants. Until the 15th century people were mainly living inside Gjirokastra Castle and in the 1580s the town had more than 400 dwellings. In the 17th century a new commercial quarter was developed with all roads coming together at a central place, which is now the Pazar i Vjetër (Old Bazaar).
Gjirokastra was an important market center for agricultural products and handicrafts until the mid 20th century which provided wealth to the city. However, not much is left from the original state of the quarter due to several fires taking place. But rebuildings and renovations have always kept the area in a similar architectural state and the bazaar is now the center of tourism of Gjirokastra. The buildings are being preserved in its latest state and there are still some artisans who try to pass on the craftmanship to the next generation. In the bazaar are now many tourist shops selling souvenirs and handicrafts, some cafes and restaurants.
