Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: A Journey to Chefchaouen

Tetouan's Tapestry of Art and Tradition

Today, Isabella and I delved deep into the heart of Tetouan, a city where ancient traditions and modern artistic expressions intertwine seamlessly. It was a day of sensory experiences, from the pungent aromas of the tannery to the vibrant colors of contemporary art. Tetouan, a city that whispers stories of its past while embracing the present, truly captivated us.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Amigo. I savored a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with mint tea, while Isabella enjoyed a selection of fresh pastries. Energized, we set out to explore the Tetouan Tannery.


Explore the Tetuan Tannery, a vibrant hub of traditional leather crafting in Morocco, where history and artistry come together in a colorful display.
The Tetouan Tannery was an experience unlike any other. As we approached, the air filled with a strong, earthy scent – a mix of natural dyes and the raw materials of leather making. We were immediately transported back in time, witnessing a centuries-old craft that continues to thrive. The tannery itself was a maze of small, intimate spaces, where artisans worked diligently, transforming raw hides into beautifully dyed leather. The vibrant colors of the drying hides created a stunning visual tapestry against the backdrop of the city.

I was struck by the sheer physicality of the work. The tanners, many of whom have learned the trade from their fathers and grandfathers, spend their days immersed in the process, using traditional techniques passed down through generations. It was a humbling experience to witness their dedication and skill. Isabella, ever the curious one, peppered our guide with questions about the different dyes and techniques used. I even managed to pick up a small leather pouch, a tangible reminder of this immersive experience. While the tanneries in Fez might be more famous, there was something uniquely authentic and unfiltered about the Tetouan Tannery.

The beauty of Tetouan lies in its ability to preserve its ancient traditions while embracing modern artistic expressions, creating a unique cultural tapestry.

Next on our itinerary was the Tetouan Modern Art Center.


Explore contemporary creativity at the Tetuan Modern Art Center, a vibrant hub showcasing local and international artistic talent in Tetouan.
Housed in a former train station, the museum itself is a blend of traditional Moroccan design and modern minimalism. Inside, we were greeted by a diverse collection of modern art and sculptures from both local and international artists. The exhibits ranged from thought-provoking paintings to innovative multimedia installations, offering a glimpse into the contemporary art scene in Morocco.

Isabella, with her librarian's eye for detail, was particularly drawn to the works of local Moroccan artists. She appreciated how their art reflected the country's rich cultural heritage while also addressing contemporary social issues. I, on the other hand, was fascinated by the international exhibits, which showcased a diverse range of artistic expressions from around the world. It was inspiring to see how artists from different backgrounds could come together in a shared space to create a dialogue through their art.

After immersing ourselves in the world of modern art, we decided to take a break for lunch. We chose Restaurant Morisco, enticed by its reputation for authentic Moroccan cuisine.


Discover flavorful Moroccan and Italian dishes at Restaurant Morisco in Chefchaouen - where culinary traditions meet affordability.
We shared a tagine, a traditional Moroccan stew, and couscous, a staple dish made from semolina. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the country's culinary heritage.

With our appetites sated, we ventured into the heart of Tetouan's medina in search of the Hibart Souvenirs Shop.


Discover unique Moroccan souvenirs at Hibart Souvenirs Shop, a charming destination in Chefchaouen for travelers seeking authentic local crafts.
The medina itself was a labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling with activity. The air was filled with the sounds of vendors hawking their wares, the scent of spices, and the vibrant colors of traditional Moroccan clothing.

Finally, we stumbled upon Hibart Souvenirs Shop, a treasure trove of Moroccan craftsmanship. The shop was filled with a wide array of handmade items, from intricately designed ceramics to colorful textiles, all reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Morocco. Isabella immediately gravitated towards the ceramics, admiring the delicate patterns and vibrant colors. I, on the other hand, was drawn to the textiles, particularly the Berber carpets, with their intricate geometric designs.

We spent a good hour exploring the shop, chatting with the friendly owner, and learning about the origins of the various items. It was clear that the owner was passionate about Moroccan craftsmanship and dedicated to supporting local artisans. We ended up purchasing a beautiful ceramic bowl and a small Berber carpet, perfect mementos of our time in Tetouan.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Restaurant Jbaria for dinner.


Discover the authentic taste of Morocco at Restaurant Jbaria in Chefchaouen—where every dish tells a story.
We celebrated our day of exploration with another delicious Moroccan meal, reflecting on the experiences we had shared. Tetouan had truly captured our hearts, offering a glimpse into a world where ancient traditions and modern artistic expressions coexist in harmony.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to hike to Jebel El-Kelaa Summit for some panoramic views, followed by a stroll through the charming Callejón de Sidi Bouchouka. We'll cap off the day with dinner at Restaurant Terrasse Djebli and drinks at Cafe Clock, soaking in more of Chefchaouen’s vibrant atmosphere. I'm particularly excited about the hike; a little exercise will do us good after all this delicious food! It’s these contrasts – the bustling city and the promise of serene landscapes – that make this trip so unforgettable.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Morocco with my lovely wife. It's moments like these that make life truly special. I am also glad that I didn’t forget my camera today, as I managed to capture the vibrant colours of the tannery. However, I did wish I had an umbrella with me today, as there was a brief shower in the afternoon. I’ll be sure to check the weather forecast tomorrow!

Until tomorrow,

José