Origins

AZILAL

Azilal carpets, from the region between the High and Middle Atlas, are characterized by unique, vibrant designs. Each carpet, individually knotted, tells stories of love, birth, and more with intricate details and lively colors. Traditionally crafted by matriarchs, they offer warmth in the Atlas Mountains and reflect the uniqueness of each family. Lightweight and small, they were created by the "Azilal" nomads. Unlike other Moroccan carpets, Azilal carpets radiate innocence and uniqueness with a bright background and regionally dyed wool.

BOUJAD

Boujad carpets, hand-knotted in the Middle Atlas by Arab tribes, impress with warm colors, unique patterns, and soft wool. These carpets feature individual motifs inspired by Amazigh culture and abstract forms. The slightly distorted patterns give each Boujad carpet a unique image, while the warm pastel tones create a cozy atmosphere. The use of natural flora for colors, including flowers and berries, gives each piece a warm, magenta touch. A Boujad carpet is not only a work of art but also a piece of identity and heritage that adds a special touch to any room.

BOUCHEROUITE

Boucherouite carpets are unique works of art made from recycled fabrics, with no fixed origin. The name comes from the Arabic word 'Bu Sherwit', meaning rags. These carpets originated in times of scarcity when people knotted together old fabrics. They are environmentally friendly, durable, and easier to wash than traditional wool carpets. With geometric designs, they tell the story of a changing community since the 1950s and 60s when nomadic shepherds transitioned to a more urban lifestyle.

BENI-OURAIN

Beni Ourain carpets, from 17 tribes in the Middle Atlas, are minimalist and neutral. With heights ranging from 25 to 50 mm, they fit into any interior. The geometric patterns represent protection from negative energies and fertility. The wool, from black, brown, and white sheep, remains undyed, with white sheep providing an ivory background. Despite fewer colors, Beni Ourain carpets are characterized by hidden details and imperfections that add character. Popular since the 19th century in the West, especially through architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Almost a quarter of the Moroccan sheep population comes from this region. A Beni Ourain carpet adds timeless elegance and cultural depth to any room.

TAZNAKHT

In southern Morocco, near the Sahara, lies the region of Taznakht, famous for high-quality carpets. Fine wool, intricate knotting techniques, smaller sizes, and vibrant color palettes, especially earthy reds and yellows, distinguish these carpets.
Taznakht is home to the highest concentration of artisans in the whole of Africa. Almost every household has a loom, and women master the knotting and weaving of carpets. Carpet weavers in Taznakht still use natural resources such as pomegranate, henna, plants, roots, flowers, dates, and bark to dye their wool. This keeps the tradition of natural dyeing alive in this region.

MARMOUCHA

Marmoucha carpets from the eastern Middle Atlas are thick, high-pile carpets with distinctive diamond patterns. Originally used as bed carpets, they provide protection from the harsh winters of the region. The soft, natural color palette in white, light gray, and brown gives these carpets a distinctive character. Almost a quarter of the Moroccan sheep population comes from the Marmoucha region, known for its high-quality wool.

HAOUZ-MARRAKECH

Haouz carpets, originating from the region around Marrakech, are characterized by their striking geometric patterns and vibrant color palettes. The skill of the weavers in this region is reflected in the detailed designs and traditional craftsmanship. These carpets are often interspersed with bold reds, warm oranges, and vivid blue and green tones.
Marrakech and the surrounding Haouz region are known for their carpet markets, where visitors can experience the diversity of these intricate handicrafts. The designs range from traditional Moroccan patterns to modern interpretations, with the rich culture and history of the region always present.

MRIRIT

Mririt carpets are hand-knotted treasures from the Middle Atlas region in Morocco. These carpets are created by the Beni M'Guild community and are characterized by their unique beauty and authenticity. The use of high-quality wool and natural dyes, often derived from plants, gives Mririt carpets their characteristic vibrant colors. The designs range from geometric shapes to abstract patterns, reflecting the cultural depth and artistic sophistication of the region.

A Canvas of Culture, Symbolism, and History

Each Zarbiya rug is a vibrant declaration of uniqueness, defying symmetry with its vivid hues and authentic signatures. Crafted by skilled weavers from various tribes and more than 50 regions, these carpets transcend standard aesthetics, capturing beauty in its purest, unwavering form.

Beyond Replicas: A Saga of Authenticity and Heritage

Zarbiya is a beacon of authenticity and cultural fidelity in a world where replicas and mass-produced carpets dominate. We're committed to celebrating true craftswomanship, challenging the overgeneralization of "Berber" carpets. The widely used term "Berber" showcasing a narrow vision of the true diversity and richness of the indigenous North African culture. Each Zarbiya tells a story, and despite modern imitations, the soulful artistry of the original weavers keeps on going, their legacy woven into every genuine piece.

Decoding the Symbols: A Tapestry of Tales

The symbols adorning Zarbiya rugs are as mysterious as they are meaningful, with each pattern holding a story untold. We have researched each pattern's meaning through conversations with elders in Southern Tunisia and Morocco*. Here is what they had to share with us:

Chessboard Pattern : An expression of fertility, this pattern combines a harmonious balance of light and dark fields.

Cross-Shaped Pattern (Baraka) : Symbolizing divine power and protection, the Baraka pattern is believed to bring good fortune and ward off misfortune.

Diamond Pattern (Raute) : A guardian against the evil eye, this pattern is thought to deflect negativity, with each diamond serving as a shield of protection.

Frog Pattern: Common in southern Tunisia, this fertility symbol intertwines magic and nature in its design.

Religious Symbols : Revealing a tapestry of faiths, these patterns range from Oriental Christian fish motifs to Jewish symbols like the Menorah, each imbuing the carpets with a spiritual depth.