But the fall of Gadhafi opened up a black market arms bazaar across North Africa, and western intelligence agencies believe AQIM may have acquired anti-aircraft missiles along with other heavy weapons, as well as plenty of vehicles, essential in a region of few (and dilapidated) roads.

CNN: Six reasons events in Mali matter

Residents said the mosque set alight was close to the town's market, a sprawling bazaar important to local trade in northern Myanmar.

WSJ: Myanmar Town Torched in Sectarian Violence

The road south of Bethlehem leads to Hebron, an ancient market town with a colourful bazaar, jam-packed with spices, fruit and clothing.

BBC: A Biblical guide to the West Bank

It started as a penny bazaar when it opened in the market in the 1880s.

BBC: Marks and Spencer to open new stall at Kirkgate Market

In the heart of Mumbai's Jhaveri Bazaar, which translates into jewellery market, 24 year old Alfiya Bhombal shops for her wedding.

CNN: India spent $56 billion for their gold?

The Bush Bazaar is only three years old, but locals say there was a similar market here in the 1980s, at the time of the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan.

NPR: Kabul's Bush Bazaar