Chouara Tannery, Fes, Morocco
Fes is famous for its leather production, still using traditional methods and natural dyes to retain its renowned high quality leather goods. It is thought that this particular tannery could date back to the 9th Century AD when the city of Fes was founded. The animal hides are softened and dyed in huge round vessels surrounding the floor of the tannery, containing urine and pigeon faeces as well as various coloured dyes. Tip: if you ever visit, make sure to take a nose peg or failing that, a sprig of mint!
Fes is famous for its leather production, still using traditional methods and natural dyes to retain its renowned high quality leather goods. It is thought that this particular tannery could date back to the 9th Century AD when the city of Fes was founded. The animal hides are softened and dyed in huge round vessels surrounding the floor of the tannery, containing urine and pigeon faeces as well as various coloured dyes. Tip: if you ever visit, make sure to take a nose peg or failing that, a sprig of mint!
