Ka'ak in Egypt: Historical Roots and the Influence of Heritage on Geographic Identity

Ka'ak is not just a traditional dessert served during holidays; it is part of Egyptian heritage, reflecting a long history of social and cultural traditions. The emergence of ka'ak in Egypt is particularly linked to the Fatimid era, where it became a tradition associated with Eid al-Fitr celebrations. However, this tradition was not limited to Egypt; it spread to other countries, demonstrating how heritage shapes the identity of places and influences cultural practices across geographical borders. The History of the Emergence of Ka'ak in Egypt: The Fatimid Era The association of ka'ak with Eid al-Fitr in Egypt dates back to the Fatimid dynasty (969–1171 AD), when the Fatimid caliphs were keen to display extravagance and generosity on religious occasions. Ka'ak was made in large quantities and distributed to citizens in decorated trays, as a symbol of joy and blessings. History books such as "Al-Mawa'iz wa'l-I'tibar" by Al-Maqrizi mention that...