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Chouara Tanneries
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Historical site
The Chouara Tannery in Fez is the largest and most famous in the city, representing a living monument to a thousand-year-old tradition. Since its founding in the 11th century, the process of leather processing has barely changed, using exclusively natural ingredients. The tannery consists of numerous stone basins filled with bustling dyes such as indigo, saffron, or poppy, giving the landscape a distinctive waffle-like appearance. Men work the hides under extreme conditions to produce high-quality leather for bags, shoes, and clothing. The smell of the tannery is intense, often prompting visitors to use sprigs of mint as a filter. From the surrounding terraces of leather shops, there is a spectacular view of the bustling activity under the open sky. Chouara is not only an economic factor but an indispensable part of the identity of the Fes-al-Bali medina, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Location: Morocco
- Top sights: Ali's Art Gallery · Al-Attarine Madrasa · Fes Tannery
- Nearby: Fes (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 10 | 11 | 14 | 16 | 20 | 25 | 29 | 29 | 25 | 21 | 14 | 11 |
| Rain mm | 95 | 86 | 94 | 72 | 38 | 9 | 3 | 9 | 24 | 74 | 116 | 94 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Chouara Tannery is located in the Fes medina and can be viewed from the rooftop terraces of surrounding leather shops. Entry is free, but the shops often expect a small souvenir purchase. You cannot enter the tanneries themselves.
Typical hours
The tanneries are active daily during the tanners' working hours, typically from morning until late afternoon. Best visited early morning when workers fill the dye vats and the color play is most lively. Fridays may have less activity.
Photography
From the terraces, photos of the colorful dye vats and workers are allowed, often for a small fee that supports the tanners. A telephoto lens helps capture details from a distance. Avoid flash to avoid disturbing the workers.
Time needed
A visit to the viewing terrace usually takes 15 to 20 minutes including photography. Time can extend if you browse the shops or are offered tea. Plan about 30 minutes total.
Combine with
Combine the tanneries with a visit to Bou Inania Madrasa, Al-Attarine Madrasa, and Kairaouine Mosque (exterior), all in the medina. The souks and Place R'cif are also nearby. A morning is enough for this route.
Getting there
The Chouara Tannery is located in the Fes el-Bali medina, reachable through narrow alleys from Place R'cif. Follow the smell of leather - it leads you straight there. A guide or map helps with navigation.
Insider tip
Take a mint leaf or essential oil under your nose to mask the strong tannery smell. Sellers on the terraces often offer fresh mint. Bargain when buying a leather souvenir - the price is negotiable.
Geography
Facts
- The tannery was founded as early as the 11th century.
- Pigeon droppings are used to soften the leather hides.
- All dyes used are of 100% natural origin.
- Chouara is the largest of the three historical tanneries in Fez.
- Leather processing is purely manual work without modern machines.
- The Fez medina is the largest car-free urban area in the world.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Chouara Tanneries (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are the Chouara Tanneries open to visitors?
You can view them from surrounding terraces, where you are often given mint leaves to help mask the strong smell.
What is the best time to visit?
Morning is best for photography, as the sun illuminates the colorful dye vats perfectly.
How is the smell at the tanneries?
The smell is very intense, as pigeon droppings and natural dyes are used in the leather tanning process.
Do I need a guide?
It is helpful for navigating the labyrinthine alleys of Fès el Bali and avoiding potential hassle.
Can you buy leather goods directly there?
Yes, most terraces are attached to leather shops that sell high-quality bags and jackets.
Chouara Tanneries: where is it located?
Chouara Tanneries is located in Morocco.
Chouara Tanneries: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ali's Art Gallery, Al-Attarine Madrasa, Fes Tannery.
Chouara Tanneries: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Chouara Tanneries: why is it worth visiting?
The Chouara Tannery in Fez is the largest and most famous in the city, representing a living monument to a thousand-year-old tradition.
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