During my 2024 trip to Morocco, one of the most unforgettable experiences was witnessing the living history of craftsmanship at Art Naji in Fez. If you appreciate the intricate patterns that define Moroccan architecture, this is the heart of where they are born.

The History: A Family Legacy Since 1930

Established in 1930, Art Naji has preserved the ancient art of Moroccan pottery for nearly a century. What began as a small family business has grown into the largest workshop of its kind in Morocco, spanning over 4,000 square meters. Today, it employs over 100 skilled artisans who pass their techniques down through generations, ensuring that the “Fez Blue” and traditional zellige patterns never fade.

Inside the Workshop: Where Earth Becomes Art

Visiting Art Naji is more than just a visit; it is an education. The workshop is divided into several areas where you can see every stage of production:

• The Pottery Wheel: Watch masters throw raw grey clay on foot-driven wheels to create tagines, plates, and vases.
• The Kilns: See the massive ovens where clay is fired. Traditionally, these are fueled by olive pits to reach the high temperatures needed for durability.
• Hand-Painting: Artisans use fine brushes to paint intricate geometric and floral designs entirely by hand before the final glazing.
• The Zellige Station: Perhaps the most impressive part—craftsmen use sharp hammers to hand-chip tiny pieces of tile into specific shapes to create the world-famous mosaic fountains and tables.

The “Zellige” Mosaic Tradition

Art Naji is a premier destination for zellige terracotta tiles, a craft perfected by Moroccan artisans. Each tiny piece of a mosaic table or wall fountain is cut without a stencil—a true testament to the skill of the maâlem (master craftsman).

Visitor Activities

• Guided Tours: Guides are typically available to walk you through the entire facility, explaining each step of the process.
• Hands-on Experience: Visitors can often try throwing their own clay on a wheel or assembling a small zellige pattern.
• The Showroom: After the tour, you can explore their massive gallery to see historical pieces or purchase unique souvenirs.

Location & Practical Info

• Location: 20 Ain Nokbi, located just outside the Fez medina.
• Getting There: It is easily reachable via a short “Petit Taxi” ride from the medina gates.
• Shipping: They are well-known for offering worldwide shipping for large items like mosaic tables or fountains.

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Traveler Tips for Your Visit:

1. Shipping: They are known for professional crating and shipping globally—perfect for items that won’t fit in your suitcase!
2. Photos: Most artisans are happy to be photographed or filmed, but it is always polite to ask first.
3. Timing: Visit in the morning when the artisans are most active at their stations.

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