Ramet el-Khalil / Mamre bazaar built atop ancient cemetery remains. Ramet el-Khalil / Mamre bazaar is the oldest market in Africa The market took its current shape approximately 600 years ago Built directly on top of an ancient cemetery
Ramet el-Khalil / Mamre is one of Africa's most historic markets, taking shape in the 14th century when Emir Djaharks el-Khalili built a caravanserai in 1382 to accommodate traveling merchants. The market remains a vibrant bazaar where both local Egyptian shoppers and international visitors purchase spices, jewelry, and souvenirs in Islamic Cairo's legendary labyrinthine streets.
Key Facts
- Ramet el-Khalil / Mamre bazaar is the oldest market in Africa
- The market took its current shape approximately 600 years ago
- Built directly on top of an ancient cemetery
- Covers approximately 1 square kilometer area (1km x 1km)
- Remains primarily authentic and serves local Egyptian shoppers, not tourists
Related site: Ramet el-Khalil / Mamre — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: This Egyptian Market was Built on a Cemetery by Wandering Wolf