The History of Leather in Fez: A Millennial Heritage

FEZ, one of the oldest cities in Morocco, is known worldwide for its leather craftsmanship, a skill that has been passed down through generations. Leather in FEZ is a centuries-old heritage, dating back to medieval times. The city is home to some of the oldest tanneries in the world, including the famous Chouara tannery, which embodies the beating heart of this tradition.

The Origins of Leather in FEZ

FEZ has long been a trading hub, attracting artisans from various regions. By the 9th century, the city had become a center of excellence for leatherwork. FEZ's tanners used techniques that had been passed down orally, and this craft was refined over time to become one of the finest in the world. Thanks to the abundance of local raw materials, such as goat and sheep hides, and access to water, essential for the tanning process, the city became a strategic location for this activity.

Ancestral Know-How

What distinguishes FEZ leather is the artisanal and natural approach to tanning. Artisans still use manual methods that have hardly changed for centuries. It all starts with the collection of animal hides, which are then cleaned, soaked in basins filled with water and natural lime to remove the hair. Tanning is done using natural materials, such as vegetable tannin extracted from tree bark, which gives the leather its exceptional suppleness and resistance.

Tanners also use natural dyes, made from local ingredients such as saffron, indigo or poppy, to dye the leather in an authentic and ecological way. Each step of the process, from preparation to finishing, is carried out by hand with artisanal precision that is reflected in the quality of the finished products.

Cultural Importance and Heritage

Leather plays a fundamental role in the culture of FEZ and beyond. It is used in the manufacture of many everyday products: bags, slippers, poufs, and even furniture. FEZ's leather craftsmanship is an integral part of the local economy, and this know-how is a national pride. The city's tanneries have also become major tourist attractions, where visitors from all over the world come to observe these artisanal methods that have stood the test of time.

FEZ, World Reference for Leather

Today, genuine leather products from FEZ are sought after not only in Morocco, but also internationally. The city has become a global reference thanks to the unique combination of traditional craftsmanship and high-quality natural materials. Many major international brands turn to FEZ for the production of high-end leather, proof that this age-old tradition continues to thrive in the modern era.

This artisanal heritage, both historical and living, gives FEZ a unique place in the world of genuine leather, where authenticity, quality and respect for traditional methods remain at the heart of each creation.