In Marrakech, the preparation of sheepskin involves an intricate process of cleaning, tanning, and dyeing to create high-quality leather. The sheepskin is first soaked in lime to remove hair, then tanned using natural ingredients like oak and pomegranate tannins. Afterward, it’s dyed with vibrant colors and softened through manual beating. The leather is then dried in the sun and used to create various products such as babouches (slippers), poufs, bags, and jackets. The process can be seen in traditional tanneries like the famous Chouara Tannery, where visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase beautifully crafted leather goods.

Yes, the smell in the tanneries of Marrakech can be overwhelming due to the strong odors of lime, ammonia, and dyes used in the leather preparation process. It’s definitely something to be prepared for! Many visitors recommend bringing a mask or holding a sprig of mint to help block the scent. The experience is still fascinating, though, as you get to see the traditional craftsmanship up close and witness the vibrant colors of the leather in the dye vats.