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Khan El Khalily Bazaar
This vast bazaar of over 900 shops, usually referred to simply as "the Khan", dates back to the 14th century. Originally built as a caravansarai in 1382 by the Emir Djaharks el-Khalili, it is located in the heart of the Fatimid City (Islamic Cairo) and retains one of its Mamluk arches as an entrance to the market.
The Khan is adjacent to El Muski market and together they comprise one of Cairo's most important shopping districts. Egyptians generally shop in the north and west part of the market, where prices are cheaper. Special areas are given over to brassware, copperware, gold, belly dancing dresses, carpets, fruit, vegetables and practically everything else under the sun. Visitors can watch perfume makers, jewellery makers and a host of other artisans at work.
An especially fun part of the market to stroll through is the Street of the Tentmakers, the only surviving medieval covered market in Cairo, which is blissfully cool under the canvas. The tents on sale are not for camping, but decorated with beautiful Arabesque designs for weddings. It is also the place to seek out camel hair rugs, which make cheap but colourful gifts. Happy shopping, and remember to bargain!
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