The scientific and spiritual capital of the Kingdom of Morocco, Fez, is famous for its historical and ancient landmarks that have distinguished the city since its existence, and it has remained a mark that attracts every visitor from Morocco and abroad. Among the most important of these monuments that have remained firmly established today are the most important and oldest profession practiced by the inhabitants of Fez since more than two centuries, and that’s what Things to Do in Fez is going to introduce you to, "Dar Al-Dabbagh", or Tanning Houses.
Despite the development in the city of Fez and the emergence of many modern factories specialized in the manufacture of leather, however, Fez, which was known for its tanning role and which exceeded the number of other Moroccan cities, still preserves some of the tanning houses, whose construction dates back to the Middle Ages and on top of which is the most important tanning house: Tanning of Shwara.
This historic landmark, which opened for centuries in the heart of the ancient city, Fez, is located in the neighborhood of Blida, specifically near the Wadi Zuhul, known as the Valley of the Gems, which is the valley that splits the city of Fez into two sides, the side of the villagers and the side of Andalusia, and was established in the Marinid era, since 1280 and covers an area of 3500 square meters and includes 700 manufacturers distributed in 400 shops for the manufacture of leather products.
The tanning house Shawara is related to other tanning houses. There are traditional ministries on the roofs of the tannery that sell everything that is made of leather, such as jackets, bags, and shoes. Despite the unpleasant odors coming from the leather manufacturing process, which the manufacturers and shop owners are accustomed to, the beauty of the tannery, its pure colors, and its old traditional design make the visitor forget how strong the smell is.
Tanning houses was known in the past as the Houses of Gold, because of the abundant profits it generated. In Fez, when we say Dar Al-Dabbagh, the Fassis refer to Dar Al-Dabbagh Shwara directly, because it is the oldest and most famous, which is widely known by visitors from inside and outside the country.
In general, the tannery workers must have the physical structure that allows them to work, because the work of the tanner needs strength, as they remain for hours in the sun. As for work inside the tanning house, it starts with degrees such as promotion at work, and during work, the workers usually repeat songs and cheers for recreation and trying to enjoy their time.
Concerning tourists and visitors, everyone can notice how much they enjoy the beauty of the scene, as you find them taking pictures from the bazaars overlooking the tannery and sometimes with the workers themselves in addition to the acquisition of local products made of pure Fassi leather.
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