A marketplace or bazaar, traditionally an open-air venue for buying and selling goods.

Origin: The word 'سوق' (souq) originates from Classical Arabic, which has been a lingua franca of trade and commerce across the Middle East and North Africa for centuries.
Historical and Cultural Context: Historically, souqs were central to the economic and social life of cities. They were places where not only goods but also news and culture were exchanged.
Evolution: While originally open-air, many souqs have evolved into covered marketplaces or have been incorporated into modern shopping malls, though they retain their traditional charm.
Modern Relevance: Today, the concept of the souq has been adapted in online marketplaces, bringing the essence of these bustling trading hubs to the digital age.

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, is often referred to as a souq and attracts millions of visitors annually.