Istanbul’s secondhand bookshops, known as sahafs, are a haven for collectors and history enthusiasts. Every weekend, rare books, historical documents, and ephemera go under the hammer at traditional auctions.
These traditional auctions, known as mezats, have been a part of Istanbul’s cultural scene for centuries. Sahafs, or secondhand bookshops, have been around since the Ottoman Empire, with the Grand Bazaar being a central hub for book trading.
Today, you can find rare books, historical documents, and ephemera, such as posters, CDs, and vinyl records, at these auctions.
The most competitive bidding usually goes on for first editions, signed books, engraved publications, or old Ottoman texts.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about Istanbul’s cultural heritage, the sahafs are definitely worth a visit.
