Ah, we tried NOT to breathe deeply at the infamous tanneries of Fez. One of the smellier tradional crafts of Morocco, the processing involves a wide variety of pungent aromas. Namely pigeon poo, cow urine, fish oils, animal fats and brains, chromium salts and sulphuric acids, which all contribute to the marvelous array of colours of leather which are produced in the tanneries.
The two most notable colours on our visit were the brillant yellow from the milled pomegranate bark and the cinnamon colour from the tamarisk fruit. Little has changed in centuries. Skins are still carried by donkey. Workers stomp the skins in vats with their bare legs.
Along with the view, we were provided with a sprig of mint (aka Moroccan gas mask). Whew!!
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