Tour the Leather Tanneries of Marrakech

The tanneries of Marrakech are a must-see for any visitor to the city. Located in the old medina, these centuries-old tanneries are still in use today, and offer a fascinating glimpse into this ancient craft. The tanneries are divided into two main areas: the Chouara Tannery and the Tanneries of Sidi Ghanem. The Chouara Tannery is the older and larger of the two, and is said to date back to the 11th century. It’s a maze of narrow alleys and small courtyards, where you can see the workers using traditional techniques to dye and treat the leather. The Tanneries of Sidi Ghanem are newer, and were built in the 1970s. They’re not as picturesque as the Chouara Tannery, but they’re more accessible and offer a better view of the production process. Both tanneries are open to visitors, and you can watch the workers at work from the edge of the tanning pits. It’s a fascinating and somewhat smelly experience, but it’s well worth it for the unique insight it offers into this ancient craft.