Fady Francis

CAIRO: Muslims around the world are observing Ramadan, a month of dawn-to-dusk fasting, intense prayer and charity.

The holy month has long been associated with a rich tapestry of customs and traditions that define its unique celebrations.

Among the most prominent symbols of these festivities is the Ramadan lantern, a cherished emblem that illuminates streets and homes, reflecting the spiritual and cultural essence of the season.

In the historic districts of Cairo — such as Al-Hussein, Al-Azhar and Sayyida Zeinab — millions of Egyptians gather to celebrate Ramadan.

These neighborhoods are transformed into vibrant scenes of light and color, adorned with elaborate illuminations and countless Ramadan lanterns that hang across streets and balconies.

Vendors line the bustling alleys, offering a wide array of goods associated with the sacred month.

Foremost among these cherished items is the Ramadan lantern, which remains the most iconic and sought-after symbol of the season, embodying both tradition and festivity.

The lantern, in its earliest form, served as a vital source of illumination in ancient times.

Initially, torches crafted from wood and fueled with oils were used to light homes and pathways.

During the Middle Ages, Egyptians advanced their methods of lighting, developing oil lamps and decorative lanterns. In the Mamluk era, streets were illuminated on a wider scale, and artisans excelled in architectural innovation, producing intricately designed lanterns adorned with refined artistic motifs.

Gamal Shaqra, professor of modern history, told Arab News: “The story of the Ramadan lantern is widely traced back to the Fatimid era, with several narratives surrounding its origin. One account links it to Jawhar Al-Siqilli, the general who founded Cairo and built Al-Azhar Mosque, and to the arrival of Caliph Al-Muizz li-Din Allah in 969 A.D.

“According to this, Egyptians welcomed the Fatimid caliph by carrying lanterns to light his path, using them as both illumination and a gesture of celebration.”

He added: “Following this historic scene, lanterns began to be used to light streets and public spaces. Over time, the lantern evolved into a defining symbol of Ramadan festivities, as children took to the streets carrying their brightly lit lanterns and chanting traditional songs celebrating the holy month.

“The tradition continued to flourish during the Ayyubid and Mamluk periods, with lantern designs becoming increasingly diverse. In the era of Mohammad Ali, the craft saw further development, as lanterns were manufactured from metal sheets and fitted with colored glass, marking a significant evolution in both design and production.”

Methods of manufacturing the Ramadan lantern have diversified over time, alongside the evolution of its artistic designs in the modern era.

With the advancement of tools and technology, merchants have increasingly introduced wooden lanterns crafted using laser-cut techniques, offering intricate patterns and contemporary styles.

Despite these innovations, handcrafted lanterns continue to retain their distinctive value and authenticity. Made by skilled artisans, these traditional pieces remain deeply cherished, preserving the spirit of heritage and craftsmanship associated with the holy month.

Artist Mohamed Abla told Arab News that the design of the Ramadan lantern was inspired by the form of the mishkat — the ornate niche found in mosques that embodies Islamic art and traditionally serves as a source of illumination.

He added that the lantern had long been a subject for visual artists, who had depicted it in their paintings as a symbol of folk heritage and the enduring traditions associated with celebrating the holy month.

During a tour of popular marketplaces, a clear variation in lantern prices was noted, reflecting the craftsmanship and effort invested in their production.

In the tourist markets along Al-Moeaz Street, brass and bronze lanterns are prominently displayed in antique shops, showcasing elaborate designs that appeal to both visitors and collectors seeking traditional Ramadan decor.