Empress Market, Karachi (must see)

The Empress Market is a famous marketplace situated in the Saddar Town locality of Karachi. The market traces its origins to the British Raj era, when it was first constructed. Today, it is amongst the most popular and busy places for shopping in Karachi and reflects as one of the few historical spots of the city. Commodities sold in the Empress Market range from condiments, fruit, vegetables and meat to stationary material, textiles and pet shops. The Empress Market was constructed between 1884 and 1889 and was named to commemorate Queen Victoria, Empress of India. The building was arranged around a courtyard, 130 ft by 100 ft, with four galleries each 46 ft wide. The galleries provided accommodation for 280 shops and stall keepers; at the time of its construction it was one of only seven markets in Karachi.