When we think of maps today, our minds almost instinctively jump to Google Maps. But it wasn’t always this way. There was a time when going on a road trip or visiting a family friend’s house meant pulling up to the side of the road, unfolding the paper map stored safely in your glove box, and tracing routes west, north, south, or east by hand. Even way before that, paper maps were essential tools for navigation and planning. Travelers would rely on these carefully folded companions to chart their routes across cities, countrysides, and oceans. That sense of necessity is at the heart of Kharita, a Cairo-born specialty print store devoted to preserving the MENA region’s historical legacy through its maps.
As stated in an article by What Women Want, since its inception in 2021, Kharita has positioned itself as both the first and largest vintage map store in the region, offering far more than beautiful prints—it delivers a connection to the past. For founder Omar Marmoush, maps are, yes, practical tools, but also intricate works of art that encapsulate the evolution of geography and culture. His fascination with cartography—the discipline blending research, exploration, and design—shaped the foundation of the brand. His goal? To rekindle an appreciation for maps as historical artifacts that connect people to their roots and reveal the transformative journeys of landscapes over time.
Today, maps have taken on renewed significance. They show us what’s here, what used to be, and what still matters. They’re especially powerful during times of conflict, when borders and territories are being forced to change. This philosophy drives Kharita’s mission to go beyond collecting maps, emphasizing the act of exploration as a bridge between the past and present.
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In an interview with What Women Want Marmoush mentions the relationships built through Kharita are just as important as the maps themselves. Connecting with people at bazaars sparks curiosity, especially for those who never thought maps could be so fascinating.
Beyond its role as a cultural bridge, Kharita prioritizes quality and craftsmanship. Every map is reproduced with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the rich textures and intricate designs of the originals are faithfully preserved.
