This shopping center is one of the iconic landmarks of the city of Çanakkale, renowned for its rich history and numerous legends and folk songs. The city holds a special place in the hearts of the Turkish people due to the tragic events of the Gallipoli Wars between 1915 and 1918. Whenever someone hears a song coming from the outside, they pause and remember their ancestors who lost their lives in the wars, and offer a prayer for their souls.
The mall was built in 1889 during the reign of Sultan Abdulhamit II. It was unfortunately destroyed by a bombing from British war ships in 1915, but was restored in 1921. For a short period, the complex was used as a horse stud, and it was originally known as the “Bedesten-Bazaar,” with 14 shops selling a variety of goods, including herbs, dried fruits, sweets, Turkish delights, handicrafts, and souvenirs. During the Ottoman era, horse glasses were sold at the market, which earned it the nickname “Aynalı Carsi” (Mirror Mall).
In recognition of its great reputation and the demand from visitors worldwide, the municipality of Çanakkale initiated a project to expand the Mirror Mall in recent years. The project began in 2007 with the goal of constructing a total of 50 shops in the original location, and was completed in 2013.
Before the start of the naval war in Çanakkale, one of the soldiers heard a love song about the war that was created by adding lyrics. The song was written by Saifullah, a student in Istanbul, in a letter to his mother in September 1914, in which he declared, “In the mirrored marketplace of Çanakkale, Mom, I’m going to face the enemy.” The song became popular among the soldiers during the war and was sung on the battlefield. After the war, the soldiers returned to their homeland, and the song continued to be sung from the Adriatic coasts to the China Walls, and in every region of Anatolia, in each local language. Today, the song remains a symbol of national reconciliation and unifies the region as a shared ballad.
Visiting the Mirror Mall in Çanakkale is a unique and enlightening experience for any traveler. This historic shopping center is not just a place to buy souvenirs, but it is also a portal to the rich cultural heritage of Turkey. The mall is a symbol of the city, renowned for its legends and folk songs, as well as its connection to the tragic events of the Gallipoli Wars.
Exploring Aynali Carsi is a journey back in time, to the era of the Ottoman Empire. The complex was built in 1889 and has undergone several transformations, including being bombed in 1915 and restored in 1921. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the original architecture, which blends Ottoman and traditional styles, while shopping for traditional goods such as herbs, dried fruits, sweets, and handicrafts.
The Mirror Mall is also a place where history comes to life. Visitors can feel a connection to the past through the folk songs that have been passed down from generation to generation, and which still evoke strong emotions in the Turkish people. The mall is also a symbol of national reconciliation, as the folk songs are sung in every region of Anatolia, bridging the linguistic and cultural differences of the country.
Visiting Canakkale Mirror Mall is not just about shopping and sightseeing, it is about immersing oneself in the rich cultural heritage of Turkey. This historic shopping center is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about the country’s history, its people, and its customs.
So, why wait? Book your tour with Tour Maker Turkey and experience the rich cultural heritage of the Mirror Mall in Çanakkale for yourself. Our knowledgeable and experienced guides will lead you on a journey through the city, sharing with you the legends, stories, and songs that make this destination so special. With Tour Maker Turkey, you can be sure of an unforgettable and enriching travel experience. Book now!