Malatya’s historic Bakırcılar Market reopens after earthquake rebuild

After the February 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes that heavily damaged Malatya’s central trade hub, the Bakırcılar Çarşısı and nearby Şire Pazarı have been rebuilt under the “Merkez Çarşı Project”. The Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, through its subsidiary Emlak Konut GYO, reinforced the ground with 14,937 fore piles at the market and 651 at Şire Pazarı, then constructed 5,713 and 243 independent units respectively.

The new shops were handed over in stages to owners. Minister Murat Kurum visited the site, posted on social media, and wished “bol, bereketli kazançlarınız olsun” to the reopened traders. Long‑time shopkeeper Serhat Toktamış, who moved his tea stall to the renovated Şire Pazarı, said the modern facilities, including underground parking, have revived local commerce and community spirit.

The reopening marks a symbolic step in the broader reconstruction of 11 affected provinces, signaling that both housing and commercial infrastructure are being restored.