‘Morocco Week’ in Chile Puts North African Craftsmanship on Display

The cross-cultural collaboration between Chilean and Moroccan artisans is at the heart of this event.

Marrakech – “Morocco Week” in Chile is turning heads and bringing cultures together in the heart of Santiago.

Last Thursday, the Moroccan Embassy unveiled a stunning blue-and-gold pavilion at La Moneda Cultural Center, showcasing the rich, intricate beauty of Moroccan craftsmanship.

Spanning 400 square meters, the pavilion is a testament to the skill and creativity of Moroccan artisans, with an impressive collection of caftans, zellige tiles, pottery, leather goods, carpets, and more.

It’s a rare opportunity to experience the depth of Morocco’s artisanal tradition, all while enjoying the warm ambiance created by traditional music.

The collaboration between Chilean and Moroccan artisans is at the heart of this event.

During the first workshop, Chilean artisans were eager to learn from Maison de l’Artisan, the national institution promoting Moroccan handicrafts.

They inquired about the strategies used to support and showcase artisanal products both in Morocco and internationally, gaining insights into preserving this essential part of Moroccan identity.

Speaking to MAP, Moâd Daoudia Kebdani, mission officer at Maison de l’Artisan and manager of the pavilion, shared that the exhibition has drawn large crowds, particularly over the weekend, as Chileans explore the diverse offerings and cultural experiences.

The pavilion is divided into three sections. The first displays the best of Moroccan craftsmanship, the second offers a boutique for visitors to purchase products, and the third features hands-on workshops in Arabic calligraphy, henna, and Moroccan tea traditions.

The calligraphy and henna workshops have been particularly popular, drawing long lines of Chileans eager to try their hand at these traditional arts.

The event, which continues until December 8, also includes performances, a fashion show, and collaborative workshops between Moroccan and Chilean artisans.

In addition, several conferences are being held across six universities in Chile, covering a range of topics from socio-economic development in Morocco’s southern provinces to cultural relations between Morocco and Chile, and discussions on Morocco’s stance on international issues like the Palestinian cause.

Chile’s former Foreign Minister, José Miguel Insulza, commended Morocco’s rich and diverse craftsmanship showcased in Santiago.

“The pavilion is stunning. I’ve visited Morocco several times, and the truth is that one never ceases to marvel at the splendor of the things you see there,” Insulza said to MAP during his visit to the exhibition near Chile’s presidential palace.

The former foreign minister also suggested the idea of a “Chile Week in Morocco,” similar to the Santiago event, to promote Chilean culture and enhance mutual understanding between the two countries.

With so much to see and experience, Morocco Week is a celebration of culture, tradition, and the beautiful connections that art can foster between nations.