| sIWA SILVER WORKSHOP

EXPERIENCES - WORKSHOP

Siwan Silver: Crafting Traditional Elegance

starting from XXX per person

INCLUDED IN THIS EXPERIENCE
1-6 People
1 or multiple days
Start 9:00 am | End 14:00
All transfers included
Private Guide
Take it home
Small consumptions
24/7 Assistance

The workshop

You’ll be warmly welcomed by local women at the unique silver workshop of TiltaweinSiwa’s only working silversmith, will be you instructor and will help you to create your own unique piece. The necessary materials, tools will be provided so you can start your creative adventure.  

During the workshop, you will learn about the history of silver, how traditional pieces were decorated and the significance of some pieces and their symbols. You will share with the women a nice cup of tea and homemade sweets. The workshop will last between 3 to 4 hours.

You can choose to make the workshop a one-time event or join a series of sessions to further develop your skills and make other pieces like bracelets and rings. You will be practicing on copper and at the end of each session you can take your creations with you. One piece of silver jewellery is included in the workshop. Let us know if you would like to craft more on real silver, an addition will be charged.

Silver in Siwa

Silver (fada in Arabic) was the most valuable possesion of Siwan woman and girls. Traditionally, each piece had its place, use and function when it was worn and  well-off women could wear upto five kilograms of silver jewelery, on special ocassions. Siwan, and North African silverwork is known for its sophisticated designs and the patterns used, often incorporate traditional symbols such as stars, flowers, and geometric shapes. These designs have been passed down through generations and are an important part of the local culture.

Unfortunatley, modernization soon made place for golden jewelery and many women sold their silver, leading almost to its complete disapearance.  Today there is only one active silversmith in the entire oasis of Siwa, who has made it her life mission keep this craft alive. She now wants to pass down her skills and knowledge to future generations teaching other girls the craft. For the first time, workshops are open for visitors, making this workshop a unique opportunity to discover this valuable tradition.