Dar Si Said

Dar Si Said

About

A magnificent 19th-century palace built by Si Saïd, brother of Grand Vizier Ba Ahmed. Crafted by the same master artisans who built Bahia Palace, it was fully restored by the National Museum Foundation to house the National Museum of Weaving and Carpets. Organized by region, the galleries exhibit centuries of Moroccan textile mastery: geometric Middle Atlas carpets, natural wool High Atlas weaves, vibrant Anti-Atlas rugs, and fine embroideries. The palace architecture itself—featuring painted cedar ceilings, delicate stucco, and a serene courtyard garden—is as impressive as the collections.

Did You Know?

In many Amazigh tribes, carpet weaving was exclusively practiced by women, who used patterns as a coded visual language passed down through generations.

Why Visit

  • Discover the regional diversity and symbols of traditional Moroccan carpets
  • Explore a beautifully restored 19th-century princely residence
  • Learn about ancestral weaving tools and methods

Must See

  • The giant wall map highlighting Morocco's distinct textile regions
  • The grand reception room featuring an exquisite painted wooden dome
  • The full-scale traditional wooden loom display
  • The educational videos deciphering Amazigh carpet motifs

Practical Tips

  • Visit here before shopping for carpets in the Medina to understand quality
  • Combine with a stop at the nearby Tiskiwin Museum just 2 minutes away
  • Be sure to look up to appreciate the detailed painted cedar ceilings

Details

Hours

10am-6pm (closed Tuesday)

Price

30 DH

Transport

Located in the Riad Zitoun el-Jdid neighborhood, a short 5-minute walk from Bahia Palace.

Duration

1h

Note

Great educational stop prior to exploring the Medina carpet markets.