A Yemeni man buys qat in the Suq in old Sanaˇa. In the absence of liquor in this strictly Muslim state, most adult males chew the young leaves of the plant (Catha edulis) as a mild stimulant. Originating from East Africa, the plant is grown in Yemen under irrigation. Surrounded by a massive 20 to 30-foot high wall, old Sanaˇa is one of the worldˇs oldest inhabited cities. The suq or central market is located in a labyrinth of alleyways in the centre of the old city. A large variety of merchandise is offered for sale yet sectors specialising in specific commodities make shopping comparatively easy.