Fes, Morocco

We had various opportunities to visit peoples homes, share a meal, and discuss controversial topics.  Each visit was outstanding. We were also invited to try on traditional clothing. 

The fantastic meal prepared by our hosts. Everything was delicious. I need to learn to cook Moroccan food now. 

Part of our host family in Fes

17th Century Synagogue

Jewish cemetery 

We visited a pottery factory where everything is still hand made 

Clay being made by hand

Example of a mosaic table top

Artist hand painting bowls 

This will become a custom table top. Each square will have a different design. What patience. An added note is that each little piece of tile you see has been hand cut.  You are looking a the under side of the table. The top will be the colorful tiles which are already glazed. 

At the pottery factory there were beautiful items to choose from. All hand made and hand painted.   The selection was overwhelming. 

A small sample of items for purchase at the leather factory we visited. In case you were concerned, we helped out the Moroccan economy.  It’s a shame we didn’t have more time there.  

Pigeon poop is used to treat the animal skins. The smell was horrible.

It’s hard work treating and dying animal skins before they are made into their final product
 

Leather is treated in large vats. It’s a many step, time consuming, back breaking job. 

Original Jewish section of Fes.  The Jews were wealthy in those days and all the homes had balconies. 

Delightful flower shop filled with artificial flowers for many uses.  The shop seemed endless. 

Charming street

They weren’t thinking of Tom when they made these streets. 

Baking by hand

This section of the souk had dyed leather and yarns

Notice the supports used to keep the ancient walls from collapsing 

There are endless shops in the souks with an infinite number of items to purchase. It’s extremely crowded and overwhelming. 

Mosque Al Qaraouiyine