Anfushi Souk

Comparing the souks of Cairo to those of Alexandria, one could draw certain conclusions about the two cities’ preoccupations. Those of Cairo were mostly filled with clothes, housewares, trinkets and fabric; a step into the materialistic world. The narrow lanes of the Anfushi souk in Alexandria, crammed between decaying buildings, seemed to hold the world’s fish-stock. Stall after stall offered sea-food, fresh from the cities many boats, as well as all that is required to serve a delicious meal.

Veiled women navigated the stands carrying their purchases on their heads, as those stood the other side of the counter chatted away, shaded from the midday sun. This place had atmosphere, and contrary to what I said about Alexandria’s European influences, this felt like the heart of the Middle East.