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  6. Souk Haddadine & Place des Ferblantiers (Metalwork Souk)

Shopping · Marrakech-Safi, Marrakech-Safi

Souk Haddadine & Place des Ferblantiers (Metalwork Souk)

  • SpecialtyHand-punched brass and silver-plated lanterns and metalware
  • HoursDaily 9AM-7PM
  • PriceMAD 150-1,200 (approx USD 16-130)

Place des Ferblantiers and the surrounding Souk Haddadine form Marrakech's traditional metalworking quarter, where the rhythmic tapping of hammers on brass and tin has continued for generations. Open-front workshops line the square, their walls hung with hundreds of hand-punched lanterns in brass, silver-plate, and colored glass, alongside decorative trays, candle holders, and mirror frames.

The ironmongers' and tinsmiths' square where craftsmen hand-punch brass and silver-plated lanterns, trays, and lighting fixtures in open-front workshops

Place des Ferblantiers and the surrounding Souk Haddadine form Marrakech's traditional metalworking quarter, where the rhythmic tapping of hammers on brass and tin has continued for generations. Open-front workshops line the square, their walls hung with hundreds of hand-punched lanterns in brass, silver-plate, and colored glass, alongside decorative trays, candle holders, and mirror frames. Craftsmen work visibly at their benches, piercing intricate geometric and floral patterns into sheet metal that, when lit, cast elaborate shadow patterns - a signature feature of Marrakech riad and restaurant lighting worldwide. Because lanterns are made in a range of sizes and finishes, prices vary considerably, and larger silver-plated pieces cost significantly more than smaller brass versions. The square sits near the Saadian Tombs and Bahia Palace, making it easy to combine with a morning of historic sightseeing before an afternoon of shopping. Vendors are generally willing to pack lanterns for travel, though buyers carrying larger pieces should consider checked-baggage space or ask about shipping.

Location

Place des Ferblantiers, Marrakech Medina 40000, Morocco

31.6197, -7.9835 View on map

Highlights

  • Watch metalworkers hand-punch lanterns at open workshop benches
  • Choose from brass, silver-plate, and colored-glass lantern styles
  • Compare intricate geometric and floral piercing patterns
  • Combine with nearby Saadian Tombs and Bahia Palace sightseeing
  • Ask vendors about safe packing for lanterns in checked luggage

Tips for visiting

  • Test how a lantern casts light by asking to see it near a light source before buying
  • Larger silver-plated lanterns cost significantly more than small brass versions
  • Ask for careful packing or bubble wrap if traveling with checked luggage
  • Combine the visit with the nearby Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs
  • Bargain as with other souk goods - starting offers are typically inflated for tourists

When to visit

Afternoon light works well for viewing how the pierced patterns cast shadows; combine with morning sightseeing at nearby palaces.

Accessibility

The square itself is relatively open, though surrounding workshop alleys are narrow with uneven surfaces.

Frequently asked questions

Are the lanterns wired for electricity or candles?

Both styles are available; ask specifically if an electric-ready lantern is needed, as many traditional pieces are designed for candles.

Can lanterns be shipped home?

Some vendors can arrange shipping for larger or fragile pieces; smaller lanterns are generally easy to pack in checked luggage with careful wrapping.