“A nation without a past is a nation without a future.”
Kharita, a Cairo-born specialty print store, is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the historical legacy of the MENA region through maps. It is founded in 2021 by Omar Marmoush, a 20-year-old Egyptian entrepreneur. Kharita has quickly established itself as the largest and first vintage map print store in the region. It blends passion for cartography with a commitment to preserving heritage.
About The Founder
Despite being born in Egypt, Omar spent much of his upbringing abroad in a diverse cultural environment. This gave him a unique perspective on the importance of history and the role maps play in connecting people to their roots.
Marmoush talking about his passion for cartography and history and how that led him to start his own project, “At its core, Kharita strives to share the significance of vintage maps with a wider audience, preserving the history of the MENA region for future generations first, building a community for enthusiasts and collectors second, and a business last.”
His early fascination with cartography led him to recognize the power of maps. He sees them not only as navigational tools but as valuable pieces of art that tell the stories of the past. “I wanted to offer maps that aren’t just decorative but that also spark curiosity and educate people about the history of our region. Every map tells a story of where we come from, the paths we’ve taken, and the people we’ve met,” Omar explains.
What Kharita Stands For
In times of conflict and occupation, such as the ongoing situation in Palestine, maps take on even more significance. Omar reflects, “Maps don’t lie. In times like these, when history is being rewritten and truths are being distorted, maps are a way to go back to the original boundaries, the truths that have always been there. They serve as a reminder of what was once there and what still belongs to the people.” For Omar, maps are not just a way to document history. They are a tool for reclaiming the truth and ensuring that history is not forgotten.
Beyond Just Maps
Kharita’s mission goes beyond maps and history. The brand also emphasises travel and exploration as a way to deepen the connection between the past and the present. Omar and his team frequently embark on trips across Egypt and beyond. During these journeys, they compare what exists today with what maps and images from the past depict. “Travelling allows us to see how places evolve over time and how geography shapes identity and culture. It’s fascinating to stand in a modern city or village and trace its transformation back through the lines on a centuries-old map,” Omar shares. These experiences not only enrich Kharita’s collections but also provide valuable insights that they share with their growing community.
Kharita’s Journey, Not the Destination
When asked about his favourite part of running Kharita, Omar said, “I love interacting with customers in person at bazaars. It’s a chance to connect with like-minded individuals and exchange insights. Even more rewarding is seeing curiosity spark in people who may not have been interested in old maps before stumbling across our booth. These interactions allow us to share knowledge and exchange stories over a shared love for cartography.” One interaction, in particular, stood out to him. “A South Korean customer once traded her Korean postal stamp with me for an Egyptian one. It was such a simple yet meaningful exchange. It perfectly captured what Kharita is all about—connecting people across cultures through history and shared passion.”
Kharita prides itself on producing high-quality prints. They ensure the rich details and textures of each map are preserved for customers to appreciate. “Every map we offer is printed with care and precision. It’s not just about aesthetics. It’s about bringing history to life in a way that people can engage with and learn from,” Omar explains.
Kharita is a collection that blends history, art, and cultural heritage. It invites people to explore the maps that shaped the MENA region. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply someone looking for a unique piece to elevate your space, Kharita offers something extraordinary.