Zellige Tiles

What Are Zellige Tiles and Why Are They Popular?

Zellige tiles are handmade Moroccan tiles, meticulously crafted from natural clay and shaped using centuries-old techniques. These handcrafted tiles are left to dry under the sun before being kiln-fired at high temperatures, creating their characteristic durability. A layer of traditional glazed decorative tile finish is then applied, giving each piece its signature glossy, uneven surface.

What sets authentic Zellige tiles apart is their organic imperfections—each tile varies slightly in tone, shape, and texture, reflecting the artisan’s craftsmanship. These unique qualities add a sense of depth, richness, and natural beauty to any space.

Used in Moroccan architecture for centuries, handmade Zellige tiles have adorned palaces, mosques, and riads, creating intricate mosaics and luxurious interiors. Today, they remain a sought-after choice for both traditional and modern designs, seamlessly blending heritage with contemporary aesthetics. Their luminous, traditional glazed decorative tile finish enhances natural light, making them perfect for statement walls, kitchen splashbacks, and elegant bathroom interiors.

What makes zellige tiles so popular?

Authentic Craftsmanship: Each tile is handmade, featuring subtle variations in tone and texture.
Lustrous Finish: The glossy glaze reflects light beautifully, adding depth and dimension to any space.
Timeless Appeal: Whether used in traditional or modern interiors, zellige tiles bring a unique character that never goes out of style.
Versatile Application: Suitable for walls, splashbacks, bathrooms, and even floors in low-traffic areas.

How Are Zellige Tiles Made?

Zellige tiles are handmade Moroccan tiles, crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Their intricate production process involves multiple stages, each contributing to their unique texture, colour variations, and glossy finish. Here’s how handmade zellige tiles are made:

1. Clay Selection and Moulding
The process begins with natural clay sourced from the Fez region of Morocco, known for its high quality. The clay is soaked in water, hand-kneaded, and then shaped into individual tiles using wooden moulds or by hand, giving each tile an organic, imperfect look.

2. Drying and Firing
Once shaped, the tiles are air-dried under the sun before being fired in traditional kilns at high temperatures. This firing process enhances the tile’s durability while maintaining its rustic texture.

3. Glazing and Second Firing
For decorative zellige tiles, artisans apply a hand-mixed glaze in a variety of rich colours. The tiles are then fired again to achieve their signature glossy, translucent finish. Some tiles remain unglazed, retaining their natural matte texture.

4. Hand-Cutting and Finishing
After the second firing, each tile is carefully hand-cut with a hammer to refine its shape and edges. This step ensures that no two tiles are identical, adding to the character and authenticity of zellige tiles.

The result is a collection of handmade, highly reflective, and uniquely textured tiles that bring warmth, depth, and timeless beauty to any space.