In the center of the medina in Fes, the hides of sheep, goats, cows, and camels undergo several processes, including the removal of hair and flesh, followed by soaking in vats, then drying and rinsing, before they are ready to be dyed and then handed over to leatherworkers. We were given a sprig of mint to ward off the powerful, unpleasant odors emanating from the vats. Pigeon droppings used in the process contribute to the stench. We had a guide, a woman who had lived in the medina all her life, to get us to the tanneries. Otherwise we would never have found it.
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