tanneries of Fez
The tanneries of Fez, Morocco, are famous for being among the oldest and most traditional in the world. Active for about 900 years and located in the historic medina of Fez, a UNESCO World Heritage site, they are home to a remarkable artisanal tradition.
Here, more than 500 craftsmen manually process hides in over 1,200 stone vats.
Life for the workers in the Fez tanneries is extremely hard and steeped in tradition, with leatherworking methods dating back to the Middle Ages. The tanners work by hand in the stone vats using mixtures of cow urine, lime, water, and salt, followed by water and pigeon droppings to soften the hides
Here, more than 500 craftsmen manually process hides in over 1,200 stone vats.
Life for the workers in the Fez tanneries is extremely hard and steeped in tradition, with leatherworking methods dating back to the Middle Ages. The tanners work by hand in the stone vats using mixtures of cow urine, lime, water, and salt, followed by water and pigeon droppings to soften the hides
the leather from tanneries
The leather from tanneries is purchased by artisans and then processed to create shoes, bags, wallets, and many other items.
Life in the Moroccan medinas
work in progress
