#Chouara

[jossarisfoto]

Marokko | Fez een ware schatkamer

Dinsdag, 12 maart 2024 | Het betreden van de oude stad Fez is als het betreden van een magische tijdmachine, waar elke straat, elke geur en elke steen een verhaal vertelt dat teruggaat tot eeuwen geleden. Tijdens ons bezoek aan deze Marokkaanse schatkamer hebben wij enkele van de meest betoverende plekken verkent, diep doordrongen van geschiedenis en cultuur. Onze reis begint bij Dar el-Makzen,…

[iamrubykhan]

So I visited the oldest leather tannery in the world 🌎 - Chouara Tannery! Considering I don’t know a thing about leather except that…again, PETA would be on me if they found out 😂…this was quite the experience. ………………………… After walking through several tiny little alleyways, my guide managed to get me into this leather shop to scope out some of the goods. I was also given a little tour of the place, that included a rooftop view of the tannery. Now, I have to be honest, this image might be very appealing, but be lucky you can see it’s beauty but not smell 👃🏾 it’s stench, because…BABY, it was rough! 😂 The reason being, the leather is actually cleaned with limestone and pigeon poop 💩. Yup, you read that right! Your fancy leather is cleaned with that stuff! Apparently, the limestone removes excess hair off the leather skin, while the pigeon poop softens the leather. Cleaning this leather is not a job for the faint hearted! ➡️ Are you a leather-lover? 👀 #beyondeden🌺 . . . . . #leather #Fez #morocco #discovermorocco #chouara #chouaratannery #tannery #blackwanderlust #agameoftones #FeselBali #Fezmedina #Africa #blackadventuristas #wegotoo #traveldiaries #traveller #blackgirlstraveltoo #meettheworld #huffpostgram #Iamatraveler #welltravelled #doyoutravel #worlderlust #fantastic_earth #simplymorocco #Medina #citywalk (at Chouara Tannery) https://www.instagram.com/p/CnVi8Gou1cQ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[irisslove]

Travelogue: Blue City of Chefchaouen & Colourful Fes

[mutant-distraction]

Morocco: The dyeing vats at Chouara are among the Fez (Fes) medina’s most iconic sights. There you see the ancient craft of tanning and dyeing in all its visceral authenticity (cow urine and pigeon poop are still key components in the process. this produces a stench so pungent that the tour guide will often supply sprigs of fresh mint to visitors).

Chouara has been around since the 11th century. The dyes used in the tannery pits are natural: Blue comes from indigo; red, from poppy or paprika; yellow, from saffron, pomegranate, or even a mix of turmeric and mimosa flowers

[worldsandemanations]

Morocco: The dyeing vats at Chouara

[bruderherzlove]

𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐞𝐳: 𝐄𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲 𝟐𝟎% 𝐎𝐟𝐟 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐩 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐋𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐚!⁣

Join Luxury Fes Tours for an unforgettable Fez guided day trip with lunch from Casablanca! Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Morocco as we transport you to the enchanting city of Fez, renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage Medina.⁣

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Explore the vibrant souks, uncover hidden treasures, and marvel at the stunning architecture that makes this ancient city unique. With our expert guide, you'll visit iconic sites such as the magnificent Kairaouine Mosque and the historic Chouara Tannery, all while experiencing the lively atmosphere of Fez’s bustling streets.⁣

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After your adventure, savor a traditional Moroccan lunch at a local restaurant, where authentic flavors await to enhance your journey.⁣

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Don’t miss this exclusive offer! Book your 𝐅𝐞𝐳 𝐠𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐩 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐚 today with Luxury Fes Tours and enjoy a fantastic 20% discount!

https://www.luxuryfestours.com/fez-guided-day-trip-with-lunch-from-casablanca.html contact@luxuryfestours.com

[malaysiatravelagency]

Experience Morocco: Enchanting Medina Walks and Desert Wonders"

Morocco, a land of vibrant cultures and dramatic landscapes, invites travelers to experience its enchanting medinas and breathtaking desert scenery. This diverse country offers a journey through historic cities and vast expanses of sand, each revealing its unique charm.

Begin your adventure in Marrakech, one of Morocco’s most captivating cities. Wander through the labyrinthine streets of the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where traditional souks brim with colorful textiles, spices, and handcrafted goods. Visit the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where street performers, food vendors, and local musicians create a lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the serene Majorelle Garden, a lush oasis designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle.

Travel to Fez, another historic city renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture. The Fes el-Bali district, one of the world’s largest car-free urban areas, is a maze of narrow alleys and bustling markets. Explore the ancient Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and the Chouara Tannery, where traditional leather is still dyed using ancient techniques.

For a stark contrast, head to the Sahara Desert. A camel trek through the golden dunes of Merzouga offers a serene and otherworldly experience. Watch the sun set over the vast desert, creating a mesmerizing display of colors, and enjoy a night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp.

In Chefchaouen, the Blue City, stroll through streets painted in various shades of blue, offering a unique and picturesque backdrop. This charming town provides a more relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views of the surrounding Rif Mountains.

Morocco’s blend of enchanting medinas and awe-inspiring desert landscapes promises a journey filled with vibrant culture, history, and natural beauty.

[tracesberberes]

The Best Places You Have to Visit in Morocco in 2024

Have you ever wondered what Morocco looks like in 2024? Well, let me tell you, it’s really awesome! We’ve welcomed more than 10 million tourists so far this year, and even more are expected in the coming weeks. Morocco is truly one of the best travel destinations in the world, and whether you’re planning to visit alone, with a loved one, or with family and friends, you’re guaranteed to have an amazing experience.

But, if you haven’t been to Morocco yet, you’re probably asking yourself, “What are the best places to visit in Morocco in 2024?” Well, I’m here to give you all the details. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the must-see spots. You won’t want to miss this!

1. Marrakech: The City That Never Sleeps

First up, Marrakech! If you haven’t been to Morocco before, this is a city you have to visit in 2024. It’s alive with energy and colors, and I promise you’ll feel it the moment you step foot there. Marrakech is known for its mix of old and new, with traditional souks and palaces blending with trendy cafés and luxury hotels.

You can’t come to Marrakech and not visit Jemaa el-Fna, the famous square where you’ll find everything from snake charmers to street food that will blow your mind. During the day, it’s all about shopping and exploring. By night, the square transforms into a vibrant place with food stalls and music. Don’t miss out on trying a traditional tagine—it’s something you’ll never forget!

And, of course, if you’re into history and architecture, the Bahia Palace and Koutoubia Mosque are must-see landmarks. Marrakech really has it all.

2. Chefchaouen: Morocco’s Beautiful Blue Town

Next, let’s talk about Chefchaouen. This is one of those places you just have to visit if you love stunning scenery and a relaxed vibe. Chefchaouen is a small town in the Rif Mountains, and what makes it unique is its striking blue buildings. Everywhere you go, it’s like you’re walking through a dream. And believe me, you’ll want to take pictures everywhere!

Chefchaouen is the perfect spot for those looking to unwind and soak in the beauty of Morocco. Wander through the narrow streets, grab a mint tea at a local café, and just enjoy the slower pace of life. If you’re into hiking, you can take a walk up to the Spanish Mosque to get an amazing view of the town below. It’s a bit of a climb, but trust me, it’s worth it!

3. The Sahara Desert: An Unforgettable Experience

Now, you can’t come to Morocco and not visit the Sahara Desert. It’s one of those places that will take your breath away. Whether you’re into adventure or just want to experience something completely different, the Sahara has it all. From camel treks over golden dunes to watching the sun set over the horizon, every moment in the desert feels like magic.

Start your journey from Merzouga, a popular spot for desert tours, and prepare yourself for a night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp. Imagine sitting by a campfire, enjoying local food, and then gazing up at the sky—it’s like nothing you’ve ever experienced before.

If you’re up for more excitement, you can try sandboarding or take a 4×4 tour through the dunes. Whether you’re looking for adventure or peace, the Sahara Desert is a place you’ll remember forever.

4. Fes: A Step Back in Time

For those of you who love history and culture, Fes is the city to visit in 2024. It’s known as Morocco’s cultural capital, and walking through its ancient streets feels like you’ve stepped back in time. Fes is home to the world’s oldest university, Al Quaraouiyine, and it’s a place where tradition is still very much alive.

One of the coolest things to do in Fes is visit the Chouara Tannery, where they’ve been dyeing leather the same way for centuries. It’s a colorful and fascinating experience that you won’t see anywhere else. Plus, Fes is full of markets where you can shop for handcrafted goods, from ceramics to textiles.

The Fes el-Bali Medina, with its winding alleys and historic architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and trust me, it’s not hard to see why. It’s one of those places that stays with you long after you leave.

5. Essaouira: A Beach Lover’s Paradise

Lastly, if you love the sea, you have to visit Essaouira. This coastal town is the perfect blend of beach life and culture. Whether you want to spend your days relaxing by the ocean or exploring the town’s medina, Essaouira has something for everyone.

The town’s beaches are perfect for windsurfing, kitesurfing, or just soaking up the sun. And when you’re done with the beach, head into the medina for some shopping and delicious seafood. Essaouira is known for its fresh fish, so make sure you try some while you’re there!

With its chilled-out vibe and beautiful scenery, Essaouira is the perfect spot to end your Moroccan adventure.

Morocco Is Waiting for You!

So, there you have it—the best places to visit in Morocco in 2024. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Marrakech, marveling at the blue walls of Chefchaouen, or experiencing the magic of the Sahara, Morocco has something for everyone. Each destination offers its own unique charm and unforgettable experiences.

Morocco is ready for you—are you ready for Morocco? Pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

[tourguidemorocco]

Exploring Morocco’s Historical Sites with an Expert Tour Guide Morocco, a land of vibrant colors, intricate architecture, and centuries-old traditions, Tour Guide Morocco offers an immersive journey through time. For those who wish to delve deep into the history and culture of this fascinating country, exploring its historical sites with an expert tour guide is essential. In this article, we will take you on a detailed tour of Morocco's most iconic historical sites, enriched with insights and stories that only a knowledgeable guide can provide.

The Significance of Guided Tours in Morocco

Traveling through Morocco's historical sites without a Tour Guide Morocco is like reading a book in a language you don’t understand. The layers of history, the significance of each architectural detail, and the stories behind the monuments are best experienced with someone who can decode them for you. Expert guides not only offer factual information but also share anecdotes, legends, and cultural nuances that bring these ancient sites to life.

Marrakech: The Red City’s Rich History

Jemaa el-Fnaa: The Heartbeat of Marrakech

At the center of Marrakech lies Jemaa el-Fnaa, a bustling square that has been the city’s cultural and commercial hub for centuries. With an expert guide, you’ll discover how this vibrant marketplace has evolved from a trading post to a UNESCO World Heritage site. The guide will also introduce you to the various performers, from snake charmers to storytellers, each with a unique role in the square's history.

The Majestic Koutoubia Mosque

Standing tall near Jemaa el-Fnaa, the Koutoubia Mosque is an architectural masterpiece that dates back to the 12th century. With its iconic minaret visible from miles away, the mosque is a testament to Morocco’s rich Islamic heritage. A knowledgeable guide will explain the significance of its design, the history of the Almohad dynasty that built it, and how it has influenced other structures across the Maghreb region.

El Badi Palace: A Story of Grandeur and Decay

Another highlight of Marrakech is the El Badi Palace, once a symbol of the Saadian dynasty's wealth and power. Though now in ruins, the palace's remnants still whisper tales of its former glory. Your tour guide will paint a vivid picture of the palace’s opulent past, describing the lavish banquets and diplomatic events that took place here, as well as the reasons for its eventual decline.

Fes: The Spiritual and Cultural Capital

Al-Qarawiyyin University: The World’s Oldest

Fes is home to Al-Qarawiyyin University, recognized as the world’s oldest existing degree-granting educational institution. Founded in 859 AD, this university has been a beacon of learning and culture in the Islamic world. A visit with a Tour Guide Morocco will provide deep insights into the university’s role in the spread of knowledge, its architectural evolution, and the prominent scholars who studied here.

The Mystical Medina of Fes

Navigating the winding alleys of Fes’s medina can be overwhelming, but with an expert guide, it becomes an unforgettable experience. The medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the world’s largest car-free urban areas. Your guide will lead you through this maze of narrow streets, revealing hidden treasures such as the Bou Inania Madrasa and the Chouara Tannery, while explaining their historical significance and the medina’s role in preserving traditional Moroccan crafts.

Rabat: A Glimpse into Morocco’s Royal Past

Hassan Tower: An Unfinished Marvel

Rabat, the capital of Morocco, offers a blend of historical and modern attractions. One of the most iconic sites is the Hassan Tower, an incomplete minaret that stands as a symbol of the Almohad dynasty’s ambitions. A knowledgeable tour guide will recount the story of Sultan Yacoub al-Mansour’s grand vision for the mosque, the reasons for its abandonment, and how the tower has become an enduring emblem of Rabat.

The Mausoleum of Mohammed V

Adjacent to Hassan Tower is the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a masterpiece of modern Alaouite architecture. This mausoleum houses the tombs of King Mohammed V and his sons, King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah. With a guide, you’ll gain an understanding of the mausoleum’s architectural elements, the significance of its design, and the role of the Alaouite dynasty in shaping modern Morocco.

Meknes: The Sultan’s Vision

Bab Mansour: The Gateway to Imperial Splendor

Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, was transformed by Sultan Moulay Ismail into a grand capital in the 17th century. The Bab Mansour gate, with its intricate zellige tilework and grand arches, is a testament to the Sultan’s vision of imperial grandeur. A tour guide will detail the construction of this monumental gate, the stories behind its decorative elements, and its importance as the main entrance to the Sultan’s palace complex.

The Royal Stables: A Testament to Power

One of the most impressive structures in Meknes is the Royal Stables, built to house 12,000 horses. The sheer scale of this structure is awe-inspiring, and with an expert guide, you’ll learn about its ingenious design, the role of horses in the Sultan’s army, and the logistics of maintaining such a vast number of animals. The stables are not just a feat of engineering but also a symbol of the Sultan’s power and wealth.

Chefchaouen: The Blue Pearl of Morocco

The Medina: A Serene Escape

Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is famous for its blue-washed medina, which offers a stark contrast to the bustling cities of Morocco. Exploring this tranquil town with a Tour Guide Morocco allows you to uncover the origins of its unique color palette, the Andalusian influence on its architecture, and the medina’s role as a refuge for those fleeing the Reconquista in Spain. Your guide will also take you to lesser-known spots, such as the Kasbah Museum, where you can delve deeper into the history and culture of the region.

The Importance of Cultural Context in Guided Tours

Every stone, mosaic, and alley in Morocco’s historical sites holds a piece of the country’s rich tapestry of history. However, without the right context, these sites can easily be overlooked or misunderstood. This is where the expertise of a Tour Guide Morocco comes into play. These guides are not just narrators of history; they are cultural ambassadors who bridge the gap between the past and the present, helping visitors to truly appreciate the depth of Morocco’s heritage.

Why Choose an Expert Tour Guide?

Choosing an expert Tour Guide Morocco for your journey through these historical sites ensures that you don’t just visit these places but experience them in their full depth. A guide’s knowledge extends beyond facts and dates; it encompasses the cultural, religious, and social dynamics that have shaped Morocco over the centuries. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, an expert guide will enhance your experience, making your trip to Morocco’s historical sites truly unforgettable.

[gaiusozarkus]

Chouara Morocco

[webdono]

Explore the Mysteries of Morocco: A 10-Day Journey from Fes

Day 1: Full Day Exploring Fes

Today, we began our Morocco itinerary tour from Fes. We explored Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visited the Royal Palace, the Mellah (Jewish Quarter), and the bustling Medina with its cafes, Mederasas, museums, and the Chouara tanneries. By late afternoon, we were escorted to our Riad.

Day 2: Fes – Ifrane – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Desert

We started early and drove through Ifrane, the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas, and the High-Atlas Mountains. After lunch near Midelt and a short break at the Ziz Valley, we arrived at the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi. We were warmly welcomed with mint tea and pastries, then enjoyed dinner by the pool and spent the night in a Riad by the dunes.

Day 3: Explore the Desert Area & Camel Trek

We climbed a dune to watch the sunrise, had breakfast, and explored the desert area. We visited Khamlia village for Gnawa music, learned about the traditional irrigation system, and shared mint tea with a nomad family. After lunch, we went on a camel trek to enjoy the sunset and spent the night in a luxury desert camp.

Day 4: Merzouga Desert – Erfoud – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley

We watched the sunrise again, had breakfast, and continued west. We stopped in Erfoud, known for fossils and dates, and explored Todra Gorge. We spent the night in the lush Dades Valley in a comfortable hotel/Riad.

Day 5: Dades Valley – Nomad Caves – Skoura – Ouarzazate

After breakfast, we visited a nomad family, drove through the Valley of Roses, and visited Amredil Kasbah. We arrived in Ouarzazate, known for the Atlas Film Studios.

Day 6: Ouarzazate – Ait Benhaddou – Atlas Mountains – Marrakech

We toured Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, then crossed the High-Atlas Mountains and arrived in Marrakech in the evening.

Day 7: Marrakech Sightseeing

We visited the Bahia Palace, Majorelle Garden, Menara Gardens, Koutoubia Mosque, and Jamaa El Fna square.

Day 8: Marrakech – Essaouira – Casablanca – Rabat

We headed west to Essaouira, explored its medina and ramparts, then continued to Casablanca and visited the Hassan II Mosque and Corniche. Finally, we arrived in Rabat, explored its landmarks, and stayed overnight.

Day 9: Rabat – Chefchaouen – Fes

We drove through the Rif Mountains to Chefchaouen, known for its blue-painted walls, and later returned to Fes for dinner and overnight.

Day 10: Fes – Transfer to Airport

Our 10 days tour from Fes ended with a transfer to the airport, concluding a wonderful holiday around Morocco.

This Morocco itinerary for 10 days was an incredible journey through diverse landscapes and rich culture.

[travelling-around-this-world]

FES, MEKNÈS, CHEFCHAOUEN 🇲🇦 4 Days

The oldest of the four "imperial cities" of Morocco (the others are Marrakech, Meknes and Rabat), Fes was the capital of Morocco several times in the past, the last of which ended in 1912, when most of Morocco came under French control and Rabat was chosen to be the capital of the new colony. Today Fes is the third largest city in Morocco after Casablanca and Rabat.

Fes is often referred to as the spiritual capital of Morocco. It was once one of the most important places of scholarship in the world, containing within its walls the bastion of Islamic teaching. The University of Al-Karaouine was founded in 859 AD and is the oldest continuously-operating university in the world.

WHAT TO VISIT

CHOUARA TANNERY

Colorful Moroccan slippers, bags, and jackets are just some of the leather goods available in Fes. But before shopping, be sure to check out the world-famous tanneries to see the traditional dying of animal skins

The ancient MEDINA

WATER CLOCK

UNIVERSITY

The Kairaouine Mosque is known to be the world’s oldest university and is the second-largest mosque in Morocco. It is one of the most important religious buildings in Fes, and as such, only Muslims are allowed inside.

Explore the SOUKS

The souks are the very soul of any Moroccan city, and the ones in Fes are some of the most impressive. Step back into a medieval time of dusty walled streets, where the only transport is donkey and cart. It’ll be an assault on the senses, with sellers shouting prices and striking hard bargains, aromatic smells coming from every direction, and textile displays in all colors of the rainbow.

NEJJARINE FONDOUK

Right amid Place Nejjarine, surrounded by metalworker workshops, you'll find the Nejjarine Museum in an old fondouk (khan or caravanserai), which has been transformed into a museum exhibiting the diversity of traditional Moroccan wooden arts and crafts

VISIT THE BAB BOUJELOUD (BLUE GATE)

The Bab Boujiloud is the iconic blue gate that marks the entrance to Fes el Bali (Old City). You can also check out the Bab Chorfa, another impressive gate framing the Medina.

WHERE TO STAY/WHERE TO EAT

We stayed at Riad Dar Omar

Here some places where to eat:

Cafè Clock

Restaurant Sahra

DAILY TRIPS FROM FES

MEKNÈS 📍

Only 65 kilometers southwest of Fes, and connected by regular trains, Meknes is a favorite day-tripping destination for visitors to the city.

This imperial city, made the ruling capital by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, is home to a compact medina area that offers a more relaxed sightseeing experience than the crowded medinas of Fes and Marrakesh. This allows for easier viewing of the alleyway architecture.

Neighboring the medina is Meknes' imperial district, home to the grand Bab al-Monsour, one of the most ornate surviving gateways in North Africa, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, with its fine tile work and stucco-decorated interior.

Meknes is also the closest city to Volubilis, Morocco's best Roman-era ancient site. The rambling hilltop site, only 32 kilometers north of Meknes, is home to half-toppled temple buildings, still-standing columns along a colonnaded street, and intricate mosaic floors.

If you start early enough from Fes, it's easy to combine both in one day. Daily trip for 25€ each.

2. IFRANE NATIONAL PARK 📍

Ifrane National Park is located in the northcentral part of Morocco.  It is situated in the central part of the Atlas mountain range. The park covers an area of 193.05 square miles (500 sq km).

The mountainous national park is blanketed in many parts with the Atlas cedar trees. Wetlands, high-altitude forests, and endemic habitats are part of what make the national park such a vital protected area.

The altitude of the park ranges from 4,590 to 7,874 (1,300 to 2,400 m) above sea level. The higher mountains are located in the neighboring Toubkal National Park which features the famous Mount Toubkal.

Approximately a tenth of the world’s population of Atlas Cedar is located here in the park. The ecosystem is also home to the endangered Barbary Macaque with approximately 25% of the entire global population found here in Ifrane. Daily trip for 25€ each.

3. CHEFCHAOUEN 📍

Chefchaouen is a small town in Morocco with a rich history. Nestled in the Rif mountains, this old town is known for its beautiful surroundings and architecture, but what makes it stand out are the striking and varying shades of blue walls – it is one of The Most Colorful Cities Around The World. 

Moulay Ali Ben Moussa founded the town of Chefchaouen in 1471. It began as a small fortress to fight the Portuguese invasions of Morocco. The Ghomara tribes, Moriscos, and Jews settled down in it after the Spanish Reconquista in 1492. Later, in 1920, Spain seized the old town, and it became a part of Spanish Morocco. Then, finally, Morocco declared its independence in 1956, and Chechaouen rejoined it once again.

The Reasons Why The City of Chefchaouen in Morocco is Entirely Blue:

The Jews

The color blue is representative of the sky according to Jewish belief. Jewish communities, therefore paint things blue and use blue-colored fabrics, especially prayer mats.

People believe that the Jewish refugees spread the blue fever to the entire ‘medina’ in 1930. The practice of painting walls blue was introduced by the Jews to stick to their religious practices. However, older residents say that the majority of the buildings within the medina used to be white until fairly recently. They stress that only the Jewish part of the medina used to be painted blue.

The Mosquitoes

A part of the residents believes that the blue shades repel mosquitoes. Their reasoning is that the insects do not like being in the water, although they live near the water. The blue walls almost look like flowing water, and they believe that this aspect keeps away the mosquitoes.

It is certainly possible that residents saw fewer mosquitoes in the Jewish part of the town, and so they decided to attribute it to the color and paint their houses blue as well.

Daily Trip from Fes for 30€ each.

[highpasstravelphoto]

Chouara Tannery in the medina of Fez, Morocco. Wandering through the vast Fez medina it would be easy to miss the tanneries but they offer an interesting glimpse into times gone by - with a process little changed since medieval times. Stone vats are filled with a somewhat toxic mixture of lime, salt, cow urine, and water to soften the leather over a period of days before dye is applied. As well as cow, sheep and goat skin, camel leather is also common here. Natural plant and mineral colours such as indigo and henna are used to tan the hides which are then sun dried. Many of the resulting leather products are made locally by hand in the medina and sold by local merchants. It's common to experience quite an aggressive sales pitch on approach to the tannery!

See more -

[samicarrillo]

Chouara Tannery, Fez, Maroc

[foggynightdonut]

When did humans start wearing clothes? Discovery in a Moroccan cave sheds some light

ByKatie Hunt, CNN Published 11:08 AM EDT, Thu September 16, 2021

In popular culture, cave men (and women) are often draped in furs, but archaeological evidence of what our Stone Age ancestors actually wore and how they made clothes is thin.

Fur, leather and other organic materials generally aren’t preserved, especially beyond 100,000 years ago. However, researchers say 62 bone tools used to process and smooth animal skins found in a cave in Morocco may be some of the earliest proxy evidence for clothing in the archaeological record. The tools are between 90,000 and 120,000 years old.

“I wasn’t expecting to find them. I was studying this assemblage initially to look at the animal bones to reconstruct the human diet,” said Emily Yuko Hallett, a postdoctoral scientist at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Human History’s Pan African Evolution Research Group.

“And when I was going through them – there were around 12,000 animal bones – I started to notice these bones that had a very different shape. It wasn’t a natural shape. And they had sheen on them, and they were shiny, and they had striations (grooves or scratches) on them,” said Hallett, who was an author of a study on the findings that published Thursday in the journal iScience.

Unlike the bones discarded after consuming an animal for food, bones used regularly by human hands gain a sheen and polish.

She also found a pattern of cut marks on other bones in the cave that suggested the humans who lived there were removing the skins of carnivores such as sand foxes, golden jackals and wildcats, for their furs. The bones of cattle-like animals showed different markings, suggesting they were processed for meat.

“I’m most excited about the skinning marks on the carnivores, because I haven’t seen this pattern described before. And my hope is that archaeologists working in much older sites also start looking for this pattern,” she said.

It’s challenging to figure out when the use of clothing began. It’s highly likely early humans like Neanderthals that lived in cold climates long before Homo sapiens arrived on the scene had clothing to protect themselves from the extreme weather, but there’s not much hard evidence.

Genetic studies of liceindicate that clothing lice diverged from their human head louse ancestors at least 83,000 years ago and possibly as early as 170,000 years ago, which suggests humans were wearing clothes before major migrations out of Africa.

Hallett said that one of 98 400,000-year-old tools made from elephant bone and recently discovered in Italy may have been used to smooth leather. They were likelyused by Neanderthals. Eyed needles emerge in the archaeological record much later, about 40,000 years ago.

The bone tools from Morocco that Hallett discovered were shaped a bit like a spatula and would have been used to remove connective tissue. Similar bone tools are still used by some leather workers today, Hallett said.

Hides drying in the sun at Chouara Tannery in Fez, Morocco. Bone tools are still used by some leather workers today.Emily Yuko Hallett

“The reason people like using these tools is that they don’t pierce the skin, and so you’re left with an intact skin,” she said.

The bone tools were found in Contrebandiers Cave on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Hallett said the climate 120,000 years ago would have been mild, as it is now, raising the possibility that early clothes could have been for ornamentation as well as protection. Stone Age fashionistas, anyone?

“There’s really no extreme temperatures or extreme climate conditions there in the past or today. So that makes me wonder was clothing strictly utilitarian or was it symbolic or was it a little bit of both?”

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