Admire the ancient traditions of leather craft

In the heart of the old city of Fes, you’ll find a place that’s full of color, movement, and history—the Chouara Tannery. It’s one of the oldest tanneries in the world, where leather is still made the traditional way, just like it was centuries ago.

From a nearby rooftop, you can look down and see big stone pits filled with natural dyes—bright reds, yellows, oranges, and blues. Workers stand in these pits, turning and soaking animal hides by hand. The smell can be strong, but it’s part of the real, raw experience. Many locals offer fresh mint to hold near your nose—a sweet little trick to help.

The tannery is not just a place to see—it’s a place to feel Morocco’s history come alive. Everything you see is handmade, from the beginning to the end. Visiting Chouara is like watching a beautiful, messy piece of living art unfold before your eyes.