The colourful lantern on every street

Ramadan

Ramadan is the month of fasting and one of the 5 pillars of the Muslim faith. During this time a unique symbol with an almost magical tradition, lights up every street. This wonderful, shining, 800 year tradition is something that makes even the bleakest street become beautiful.

The Fanoos

This is the name given to the colourful Ramadan lamp. They can be seen hanging from balconies, above entrances to buildings, shining out of shop window and on every street corner. And of course, they are available for purchasing everywhere!

The history

There are several stories (and versions of stories) about how this tradition began.
* One example is is that on the 24th July 968 AD, the Caliph entered Cairo at night, and the people of the city carried torches and candles to welcome him. To shield the flame from the wind, they wrapped them in palms and leather.
* Another story is that the Caliph wanted to light the streets and ordered mosques to hang fanoos lamps outside the mosques.
* Yet another story is that young boys had to walk in front of women (who were not supposed to be out alone on the streets) carrying a copper Fanoos. This was to warn men to move out of the way.
* Another option is that the origins of the Fanoos were from Christmas lights. As the Coptic believers in Egypt became Muslims, they changed from christmas lights to candles in simple tin containers, to be used during the holy month of Ramadan.

Whichever story is true, or even if all of them are, the fact remains that Ramadan is now integrally connected to the light and brightness of the fanoos. Every home desires one, every child wants one, schools even make them to take home, and there are types to suit every wallet. Every child wants to swing their Fanoos after the Iftar meal, singing traditional songs and visiting neighbours and relatives.

Types of fanoos

Initially the lamps were made of tin and had candles inside. These days., many have fancy airing grid designs and even coloured glass. They can be
* simple (usually made in china, and often as key chains!)
* complex (some can be found made of copper, with intricate designs)
* musical (some have pre-recorded Ramadan songs which play when switched on)
* recycled tin
* made from fabric (special Ramadan designs and colours)
* battery operated, or electric (light bulbs)
* with candles
Although many are now cheaply mass-produced in China (with a very short shelf life) you can still find the traditional fanoos maker, in some small alcove or shop. He will make them from aluminium, crafting them in the traditional shape.

But whichever type, Fanawees (plural word of Fanoos) are now a symbolic decoration welcoming the month of Ramadan. They combat the darkness with grace and beauty, delighting the hearts of all who see them.