section_path: Cityscape and landmarks/Khan el-Khalili
section_name: Khan el-Khalili
paragraph_text: Khan el-Khalili
  
  Khan el-Khalili is an ancient bazaar, or marketplace adjacent to the Al-Hussein Mosque. It dates back to 1385, when Amir Jarkas el-Khalili built a large caravanserai, or khan. (A caravanserai is a hotel for traders, and usually the focal point for any surrounding area.) This original caravanserai building was demolished by Sultan al-Ghuri, who rebuilt it as a new commercial complex in the early 16th century, forming the basis for the network of souqs existing today. Many medieval elements remain today, including the ornate Mamluk -style gateways. Today, the Khan el-Khalili is a major tourist attraction and popular stop for tour groups.