Souk Al Khayamiya / Tentmakers Bazaar

Souk Al Khayamiya / Tentmakers Bazaar. Where is Souk Al Khayamiya / Tentmakers Bazaar Located? Khayamiya Market or as some call it The Butterfly, is one of the largest Islamic Heritage Markets in Egypt, and combines the past and the present. The Khayamiya is one of the Traditional Arts and Crafts that the Egyptians associate with the Month of Ramadan. Khayamia is one of the authentic Egyptian Industries and it dates back to the Days of the Pharaohs and it was dependent on Leather. Over time it developed and thrived during the Islamic Era, especially in the Days of the Fatimid State which dedicated a whole Street to it which was named Khayamiya. However in times gone by it was a Place that was used by Merchants who arrived from Morroco and the Levant to sleep so they could buy their wares from Khayamiya. Further along the Southern Walls of Fatimid Cairo opposite the Street from Bab Zuweila there is stood a singular space in Modern Cairo. At one time there used to be hundreds of covered Markets selling all sorts of goods all through the City, but Kheemiyya , the Tentmakers Market is the only one which remains. When you leave Bab Zuweila and walk across a busy and restricted Street , you will notice an Alley in front of you which is covered by a High Roof. The Alley is lined on either side with Stalls from which Merchants in Cairo have sold their goods for Centuries. The Merchants that are here specialize in a variety of Textile Wares. What to find in The Tentmakers Bazaar and what makes it unique? Here you will find an assortment of Tapestries and colorful Carpets, Quilted Pillowcases and Wall Hangings, but the Market takes it’s name from the Tentmakers . Made of colorful Canvases and adorned with Traditional Islamic Designs which are reminiscent of the Marbel inlays that decorate the most beautiful Mosques, the Tents that are used by the Cairenes are for all kinds of Outdoor Events which include, Wedding Feasts, Store Openings Holiday Celebrations and Funerals. In respect of being the only Traditional Covered Market which is still in use in Cairo, the Crafts which are produced are also most affordable and of very good quality. You will come across all sorts of interesting Textile pieces at much more rfeasonable prices than they would be sold for in the more Touristic Khan Al-Khalili. If you decide to take a stroll in the evening in one of Cairo’s popular neighbourhoods you are bound to see one of these Tents in use and usually being accompanied by loud music and celebrations. Khan Al-Khalili Bazaar and what to expect to find there. Thrilling, colorful loud and proud and very crowded is Khan Al-Khalili Bazaar, which is full to the brim with all sorts of interesting goods. Not only will you find the typical Tourist goods here but also genuinely fine Shopping, so do not let that distract you. There is a wonderful Spice Market where you can purchase fresh Spices of any variety, also the fabulous Perfume Market full of Mixing Scents and Essential Oils. As you journey further into the Market there are Gold Vendors and Antique Shops crammed with interesting pieces. There are Fabric Shops and Carpet Vendors and Sellers of almost anything you might require, plus the atmosphere is just amazing. If however you cannot find something you are looking for, do not hesitate to ask any of the Vendors because there will be a food chance that they can point you in the right direction. In the Present Day the Market has been Modernized notably . however there are still Sections that display the original Mamluk Style architecture which featured great Archways and vaulted ceilings. The Market consists of several Restaurants and Cafes spread throughout where you can sit , relax and take a break from all that shopping. Al Fishawy is the Oldest Café in Cairo and is adorned with Large Mirrors, and old furniture, and used to be visited by Naguib Mahfouz, the Egyptian Nobel Laureate Author.