EL ATTARINE SOUK

The early Hafsid rulers (18th centuy) are credited by the establishment of the souks centred on the Great Mosque. Only the 'noble' souks are permitted next to this venerable sanctuary, while the others are relegated to the edges of the city. The Attarine Souk, or perfume market, which follows the north side of the Great Mosque, is still engaged in its original trade and essences and incense are sold there as well as the various ingredients (mineral and vegetable) used in cosmetic making. Candles, often in five-branched candelabra, are the traditional offering when devotions.
The quilted baskets adorning the shop windows are for presents from a fiancé to his future bride. The carving on wooden counters and shelves is often very fine and indicative of the wealth of this souk where the atmosphere is redolent of luxury, tranquility and the seduction of the mysterious East.