In the tanneries of Chouara, animal hides are prepared the old fashioned way: soaked in limestone vats of pigeon poop and donkey urine, hand/foot-beaten to a pulp and colored with all-natural dyes.

The yellow leather dyed with saffron is considered the most valued and is traditionally used to make pointy-toed slippers called babouche.

It should be noted that smell is not for the weak of stomach, so it’s best to accept the sprigs of mint offered at the door before taking in the sights.