🇲🇦 Morocco | Fez | Chouara Tannery

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🔲 Summary
The Chouara Tannery is one of the oldest and most iconic tanneries located in the city of Fez, Morocco. It is renowned for its traditional methods of leather production, which have been practiced for over a thousand years. The tannery is a significant cultural and historical landmark, attracting numerous visitors who come to witness the unique and colorful process of leather tanning.
🔲 History
The Chouara Tannery dates back to the 11th century, making it one of the oldest tanneries in the world. It has been a central part of Fez’s economy and trade for centuries, producing high-quality leather goods that are exported globally.
🔲 Traditional Leather Tanning Process
The tannery uses natural methods and materials in the tanning process, much of which has remained unchanged for centuries. Animal hides are soaked in large stone vats filled with a mixture of water, limestone, and pigeon excrement to soften and clean them. After the initial soaking, the hides are rinsed and placed in other vats containing natural dyes made from poppy flowers (red), indigo (blue), henna (orange), and saffron (yellow).
🔲 Colorful Vats
One of the most striking features of the Chouara Tannery is the sight of the numerous stone vats filled with vibrant, colored dyes. The array of colors, along with the bustling activity of workers, creates a visually captivating scene that is popular among photographers and tourists.
🔲 Culture
The leather produced at the Chouara Tannery is used to make a wide range of products, including bags, jackets, shoes, and traditional Moroccan slippers (babouches). The tannery is a vital part of Fez’s artisanal heritage and continues to support local craftsmen and their families.