In the 15C, thirty-six artisans’ guilds were situated in this area which lies to the north of Hoan Kiem lake, each occupying a different part of the district. Today this is the Old Quarter, once the commercial heart of the city. The narrow winding streets, bustling with activity, are home to temples and traditional tube-houses. Hang Bac and Ma May streets are particularly interesting. The largest market in Hanoi, Dong Xuan market, lies to the north of the district.