Practical Functions of Moroccan Tiles

Moroccan tile products are traditionally used in all kinds of living spaces. If you have ever stayed at a Riad in Marrakech or a Kasbah in the Atlas Mountains for example, than chances are that you have seen first hand how many possible applications there are for these types of products. One can literally find them in every room imaginable. One of the reasons why Moorish zillij tiles are so widespread in Morocco and other Arabic countries certainly has to do with their aesthetic qualities and their historic significance. However, there are also several practical reasons, including insulation, fortification, and cleanliness.

The overall climate in Morocco can be described as very hot and dry. In this sense it is sort of like living in Arizona or California, minus air-conditioning in most cases. Therefore, Moroccans go to great lengths to achieve hospitable room temperatures when building and designing their homes. Insulating floors and walls thoroughly, among other things, is of utmost importance. A zillij tile installation will add a layer of several centimeters to the surface it is applied to, thereby aiding in keeping interiors cool in the summertime. With rising energy costs and increasing efforts towards more environmental sustainability, people in other countries are also starting to choose building materials in more conscious ways.

Fortification still plays an important role today. Even though the more violent times in Moroccan history, such as tribal wars and the spread of the Moorish Empire are long gone, the sense of being able to find refuge in one’s own four walls from the oftentimes tumultuous outside world remains very much alive. A solidly built structure also shields against noise and creates tranquility and a laid back atmosphere on the inside, which is something Moroccans in particular appreciate. Finally, people in this part of the world value durability and longevity. A home with a strong foundation and proper fortifications will not only weather any sand storm, but it will also be there for future generations to enjoy. To this day the Alhambra and Alcazar palaces in Spain serve as artistic monuments of the Moors, housing mosaic creations from the 14th Century that are still perfectly intact.

For cultural and religious reasons cleanliness is of the highest order in this part of the world. Spaces covered with Moroccan tiles are generally easy to clean and maintain. The glaze is water resistant and, therefore, makes these surfaces easy to wipe. Moroccans, just like Turks and other Muslims, like to frequent hammams, which are public baths, where people go to deep-cleanse. The idea is that spiritual purity starts with physical purity. Coincidentally, in many cases these hammams are also outfitted with beautiful tile work. Today there is a growing trend among sophisticated Westerners to turn ordinary bathrooms into cozy hammams.
With Moroccan zillij tiles there is a lot more than initially meets the eye. It might be hard to look past the stunning appearance and the hypnotizing patterns, but if one does one will discover that this type of product serves many very practical purposes. For more information visit our website http://www.lemosaiste.com