Craft Workshops in Tetuan - Tetouan
- holalabrunita
- Aug 18
- 3 min read
Tetuan (Tétouan), at the foot of the Rif mountains and just a few kilometers from the Mediterranean, is one of Morocco’s most unique cities. Its medina, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of white alleys where the Andalusian legacy remains alive in every tile, every embroidery, and every artisan workshop. Historically, this city has been a center of artistic refinement and continues to be so thanks to its artisans and specialized schools.
If you’re looking for an authentic experience, far from mass tourism and deeply connected with local culture, Tetuan (Tétouan) is the ideal place to discover Moroccan craftsmanship from its Hispano-Moorish roots.
A city that is a school for artisans
For centuries, Tetuan (Tétouan) has been a center for artisan training. In 1945, the School of Arts and Crafts of Tetuan (Tétouan) was founded, a pioneering institution in Morocco that has trained generations of artisans in disciplines such as marquetry, ceramics, calligraphy, wood carving, and embroidery. Many current workshops are led by masters who studied there or by collectives that keep the tradition alive with a strong community focus.
What can you learn in Tetuan (Tétouan)
Traditional Tetuan (Tétouan) embroidery
Tetuan (Tétouan) embroidery is recognized for its precision, symmetry, and geometric beauty, with clear roots in Andalusian art. You can learn techniques such as cross-stitch, gold and silver thread embroidery, or embroidery on tulle. Fine fabrics like linen or silk are used, and it is a highly valued art in the northern region.
Marquetry and inlay work
Tetuan (Tétouan) is famous for its work in wood inlaid with bone, mother-of-pearl, and other materials. In marquetry workshops, you can learn to create panels, chests, trays, and frames with geometric patterns inspired by Islamic architecture. It is a laborious and detailed art, ideal for those who enjoy meticulous work.
Glazed ceramics
Tetuan’s (Tétouan’s) ceramics maintain techniques very similar to those of southern Spain. Workshops teach you how to model, decorate, and glaze pieces with blue and green motifs, following traditional geometric patterns or with a more contemporary approach.
Arabic calligraphy
In this city where Arab and Hispanic cultures blend, calligraphy holds a central place. Artistic writing workshops explore different styles (Kufi, Naskh, Thuluth), techniques with brush and ink, and supports such as handmade paper or decorative ceramics.
Naïve painting and mural art
Tetuan (Tétouan) has also seen a vibrant popular art scene flourish. In some art studios, you can participate in workshops on wood painting, folk illustration, collage, and muralism with local artists.
Recommended participatory workshops
National School of Traditional Arts and Crafts of Tetuan (Tétouan): some workshops open to the public through cultural agreements or special visits.
Women’s embroidery associations from the Rif: offer personalized workshops in homes or community centers.
Marquetry ateliers in the medina: many accept visitors by appointment for practical sessions.
Ceramics and calligraphy workshops organized by local cultural foundations or independent artists.
Tips for your visit in Tetuan
Tetuan (Tétouan) is not a city oriented to mass tourism, which allows for a more intimate and authentic experience. However, for that reason, it is important to contact in advance to arrange private appointments or workshops.
Most workshops are located inside the medina or its immediate surroundings. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and allow time to explore on foot.
If you are interested in an academic or professional approach, Tetuan (Tétouan) is ideal because of the technical quality of its master artisans.
Take advantage of the proximity to Rif villages to complement your experience with textile routes or visits to rural cooperatives.
Want to book a Workshop?
At LaBrunita.com, we help you find your favorite workshop from an authentic, carefully curated selection. Discover unique experiences and book directly the workshop that resonates with you the most.
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