4K Egypt Walking Tour - Cairo's HIDDEN GEM Khan el-Khalili Market Walking Tour | 4K HDR 60fps
Welcome to Cairo, Egypt. we are transported back in time to a bygone era, when this bustling souk was a hub of trade and commerce in the heart of Cairo. 0:00:09.986,1193:02:47.295 As we walk through the corridors of Khan el Khalili market, The market, which dates back to the 14th century, was named after the famous Mamluk Sultan al-Khalili, who ruled Egypt during the 14th century. Over the centuries, Khan el Khalili market has played a vital role in the economic and cultural life of Cairo, serving as a center of trade and commerce for merchants from all over the world. The market was a hub for the trade of spices, textiles, and precious metals, and was renowned for its skilled craftsmen who produced exquisite works of art in metal, wood, and glass.
The market's narrow, winding streets and alleys are a testament to its rich history, with each corner and turn revealing a new wonder or hidden gem. The market's many shops and stalls overflow with treasures, from gleaming brass lamps and intricate textiles to delicate glassware and handcrafted jewelry, each piece a testament to the skill and artistry of the local craftsmen. Even here, we come across a stunning display of Ottoman-style tiles featuring intricate tulip patterns in classic blue and red colours that were characteristic of the Ottoman Empire. It's worth noting that while the Ottoman Empire had a significant influence on the region, while the tiles we see in Khan el Khalili market may not necessarily be from the Ottoman period.
The market has a long and complex history, and many of the buildings and structures have been renovated and restored over the years, incorporating elements from different periods and styles. Nonetheless, the Ottoman-style tiles we see in the market are a beautiful example of the intricate and ornate designs that were popular during the Ottoman period, and they serve as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the region. As we continue our journey through the market, we can't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the rich history and culture that surrounds us kept alive generation after generation. The market stands as a living testament to Islams enduring vitality, a symbol of the cultures past, present, and future. And as we wander the night, we are reminded of the timeless beauty and charm of this ancient city, and the enduring spirit of its people.
As we wander through the markets, we will likely come across several of these carts, their sweet aroma tempting you to try one. Coal-roasted sweet potatoes, or "batata" as they are locally known, are a staple of the Ramadan festivities in Khan el Khalili. These sweet potatoes are roasted on small wooden carts over hot coals, giving them a delicious smoky flavour and crispy texture. The vendors will expertly slice open the roasted sweet potatoes and sprinkle them with a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and salt, creating a mouth-watering treat that is both sweet and savoury.
The batata carts are not just a popular snack for locals and tourists alike, but they are also a symbol of the rich culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations in Cairo. We now see a "chai-wallah", or tea vendor, who is carrying a samovar on his backs as he roams the streets of the market. The samovar is a traditional metal container used for heating and serving tea, and is an important part of the tea culture in Egypt and the Middle East. As we continue our walk through the bustling market, you may notice that some of the people around us are dressed in traditional clothing, including the iconic Ottoman Subject or Pasha attire.
These outfits includes long, flowing robes known as a "kaftan", a vest or shirt made of luxurious materials, and baggy trousers tapered at the ankle, known as "shalwar". But one of the most noticeable features of this attire is the red, cylindrical hat with a small tassel on top, known as the Ottoman Fez. The Fez was introduced to Egypt during the Ottoman Empire and became a symbol of social status and subjection of the people under the Sultan. Now banned in places like Turkiye, it is still worn on special occasions and festivals here in Egypt, particularly during the Ramadan festivities, as a way to honour the rich cultural heritage of the country and pay homage to the influential Ottoman Empire. It's also worth noting that the Fez is more than just a hat; it represents a long and complex history of cultural exchange and influence between different societies and nations.
The fez is a symbol not only of Ottoman affiliation but also of religious adherence to Islam The distinctive red colour and shape of the Fez have become iconic, and are instantly recognizable as a symbol of the Ottoman Empire and the wider Middle East. The name "fez" itself refers to the Moroccan city of Fez, where the dye to colour the hat was extracted from crimson berries. However, its origins are disputed.
So, as we walk through the market and see people dressed in traditional Ottoman Pasha attire, take a moment to appreciate the rich cultural heritage and history that this clothing represents. The Fez, in particular, is a symbol of elegance, sophistication, and social status, and is a unique and iconic element of Egypt's cultural identity.
2024-10-11 01:39
