Fez Attractions
Tanners' pits, Fez © Judith Duk
Tanneries
Morocco is famous for producing high quality soft leather. It is
recommended that only those with strong stomachs visit the tanner's
quarter, close to the Karaouine Mosque, which despite its odorous
reputation has become one of Fezs' main attractions. Visitors can
ascend to any one of the terraces belonging to the surrounding
leather shops that look down on the fascinating tanners' yard,
honeycombed with vats of dye and piled with skins (it is expected
that you will at least look around the shop afterwards, and if
nothing is bought a tip to the shop owner is required). The reason
for the bad smell is chiefly because guano and pigeon droppings are
used as part of the curing process.
Address: Bab Debbagh (Tannery Gate);
Opening time: Daily 9am to 6pm
