Kairouan has been a carpet-weaving centre for centuries, and its wool rugs with bold red geometric motifs are among Tunisia’s best-known crafts. Many are knotted by hand, often by women working at home or in cooperatives.
How to judge quality
- Turn the carpet over: hand-knotted rugs show a clear, even pattern of knots on the back.
- Ask about the material (wool, wool-cotton blend) and natural versus chemical dyes.
- Ask for the official craft-office stamp or certificate that many registered workshops provide.
Buying tips
- Visit several shops before deciding; prices vary a lot with size and knot density.
- Bargaining is normal, so stay polite and be ready to walk away.
- Ask the shop to ship large rugs, or have them folded for luggage.
- Prefer workshops where you can see the weaving, which supports local craftspeople.
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