Discovering Fondouk Chejra: A Hidden Gem in Tangier



Tucked away in the bustling Kasbah of Tangier, Fondouk Chejra is a place you could easily walk past without noticing, its discreet entrance blending seamlessly into the lively street. Had it not been for my guide, I might have missed it entirely.
The street outside was alive with color and movement—locals selling fruits and vegetables from tables lining both sides of the road, their voices rising over the chatter of the crowd. But stepping through the door of Fondouk Chejra, the noise of the street gave way to something entirely different.
Inside, a two-story building wrapped around a charming courtyard. Electrical wires hung in an intricate web, weaving between little studios where doors stood wide open. The clacking of old wooden weaving machines echoed softly, creating a rhythmic backdrop.
We climbed the stairs to a studio on the second floor, and as I passed each workspace, the vibrant fabrics and spools of thread caught my attention. It was a feast for the eyes—a kaleidoscope of textures and colors in every shade imaginable.
I was there with a purpose: to find fabric for a project. I needed a simple off-white material with enough texture to add dimension for upholstery, as well as some solid hues for accent pillows. I brought along swatches from old Moroccan blankets I’d planned to repurpose into pillows.
The artisans were warm and attentive, guiding me through the options and noting my needs. I left my swatches behind and was told to return in a few days for samples.
When I came back, the results were even better than I had imagined. Among the samples, I found exactly what I was looking for—beautifully woven fabrics that perfectly complemented my design vision.
I’ll be sharing more about the final pieces and how these incredible fabrics brought my project to life in a future post. For now, I hope this glimpse into the charm and craftsmanship of Fondouk Chejra inspires you as much as it did me.
Comments