Moroccan rugs aren’t just beautiful. They’re packed with history and culture. Every rug tells a story, woven by skilled artisans using techniques passed down for centuries.
From soft, neutral Beni Ourain rugs to bold, colorful Boucherouite designs, there’s a style for every space. Let’s break down what makes Moroccan rugs special, how to spot the real deal, and the unique styles you’ll find.
What Makes a Moroccan Rug?
A rug isn’t Moroccan just because of its design. It has to be made in Morocco. That might sound obvious, but many so-called “Moroccan rugs” online come from factories in India or Turkey. These copies may look similar, but they lack the craftsmanship, quality, and cultural significance of the real thing.
Authentic Moroccan rugs are handwoven using natural materials. They usually contain high-quality sheep’s wool, but some also include cotton or silk.
Moroccan vs. Amazigh (Berber) Rugs
Many Moroccan rugs come from Amazigh (Berber) tribes. But not all Moroccan rugs are Amazigh. The Amazigh people are the indigenous North Africans from Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. They call themselves Imazighen, meaning “free people.” The term “Berber” came later from Arab and European influences.
Where Did Moroccan Rugs Come From?
Moroccan rugs have been around since at least the 8th century. Amazigh tribes in the Atlas Mountains started weaving them for practical use. These rugs kept people warm in winter, cool in summer, and doubled as bedding or saddle covers.
Over time, rug-making became an art form. Patterns carried cultural meanings, personal stories, and even spiritual symbols. When Islam spread through the region, geometric and arabesque designs were added to traditional motifs.
Materials and Weaving Techniques
Most Moroccan rugs are made from soft, durable sheep’s wool. Older rugs may also have goat or dromedary wool. Some, like Boucherouite rugs, use fabric scraps for an eco-friendly twist.
Women typically weave these rugs by hand, using skills passed down through generations. Some are thick and fluffy, while others are flat-woven. Many designs are made instinctively, without a planned pattern. That’s why each Moroccan rug is unique.
Popular Moroccan Rug Styles
1. Beni Ourain
These are the most famous Moroccan rugs. They come from the Amazigh tribes in northeastern Morocco. Beni Ourain rugs have a soft, ivory wool base with simple black or brown geometric designs. The thick pile makes them warm and cozy, perfect for colder spaces.
These rugs became popular in the mid-1900s when designers like Le Corbusier and Henri Matisse used them in modern interiors. Their minimal look works well with Scandinavian, boho, and contemporary styles.
2. Beni Mrirt
Similar to Beni Ourain but even denser and softer. Beni Mrirt rugs come from the High Atlas Mountains and use a special washing technique that gives them a silky feel. They often have richer colors, like deep greens and burnt oranges.
3. Boucherouite
These rugs are made from recycled fabric scraps. They’re colorful, abstract, and full of personality. Originally, they were a way for weavers to use whatever materials were available. Now, they’re celebrated for their vibrant, eco-friendly designs.
4. Boujaad
These rugs stand out with warm, sunset-like hues: reds, pinks, and oranges. They often feature freeform geometric or nature-inspired patterns. Boujaad rugs are lighter than Beni Ourain, making them perfect for layering.
5. Azilal
Azilal rugs mix bright colors with a creamy wool background. They’re full of bold patterns and symbols that often tell personal or tribal stories. These rugs are perfect if you want something artistic and one-of-a-kind.
More Than Just a Rug
Moroccan rugs are more than décor. In traditional Amazigh culture, they were used for warmth, prayer, ceremonies, and even as family heirlooms. Today, artisans still make these rugs by hand, keeping centuries-old traditions alive!
