Wikala al-Tutungi
Monument Small historic warehouse and caravanserai in Cairo
An Ottoman-era wikala in Cairo’s old city, notable for its merchant balconies and storage levels; tourists visit to study historic Islamic commercial architecture and the surrounding souk streets.
Wikala al-Tutungi is a small historic caravanserai building located in Cairo’s old urban core, representing the city’s traditional merchant infrastructure. It belongs to the group of commercial buildings that served traders in the medieval market zone.
The layout centers on a courtyard with ground-floor storage for goods and upper rooms for travelling merchants, with a street-facing facade that facilitated loading. Architectural details are generally restrained and focused on functionality, with timber elements on upper levels common.
Designed originally as a combined inn and warehouse for merchants, the wikala has seen changing uses over time, frequently housing workshops or small shops as trade patterns shifted. It remains part of the historic commercial streetscape.
The building is located in Historic Cairo inside Cairo Governorate, within walking distance of other wikalas and market streets in the medieval district.
- Name variants: Sometimes listed under variant spellings in guidebooks and maps, so check alternate transliterations when searching on-site or online.
- Upper-floor features: Upper rooms often have wooden lattices or balconies that offer sheltered views over adjoining streets and courtyards.
How to Get to Wikala al-Tutungi #
Located in southern sectors of historic Cairo; access by foot from major nodes (Khan el‑Khalili, Al‑Azhar) or by short taxi. Local maps or guides recommended.
Tips for Visiting Wikala al-Tutungi #
- Wikala al‑Tutungi is farther south in the old city-combine a visit with nearby Citadel or medieval mosque sites if travelling in that direction.
- Check opening times of any onsite museums-some restored wikalas house small museums with limited hours.
- If using a taxi, fix the fare beforehand or use an app where available to avoid confusion.
Best Time to Visit Wikala al-Tutungi #
Visit in the cooler months; avoid high summer heat.
Weather & Climate near Wikala al-Tutungi #
Wikala al-Tutungi's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and cool winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 8°C to 35°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 20°C and lows of 8°C. Almost no rain.
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February
February is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 9°C. Almost no rain.
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March
March is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 11°C. Almost no rain.
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April
April is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 14°C. Almost no rain.
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May
May is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 18°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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June
June is warm with highs of 34°C and lows of 20°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is the hottest month, feeling like 28°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 28°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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September
September is warm with highs of 33°C and lows of 20°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 18°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 13°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 9°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.