The Egyptian Kilim - more than just a rug!

At that time rugs were made from locally available materials, such as flax fibers, plam fibers, grasses and cotton.

The supreme period of rug weaving started during the rule of the Mamluks in the 15th century, in which the handcraft also started to spread over different Egyptian villages.

The Turkish influence during the Ottoman era in the 16th century was not only felt in the culture, but also in the kilim designs. Different color mixtures and shapes were used and weavers embedded symbols to their works to carry information across the country.

Until now the symbols and motives woven onto the rugs have special meanings. Certain patterns are used for protection, wishes, messages and believes.

As Egyptian rugs were getting more and more popular on the international trade market, the city of Fowa, right by the Nile Delta in northern Egypt, became the rug-hub with 70 percent of all workshops in the country. The handcraft is the backbone of the families of Fowa, the techniques and secrets of weaving are being passed from generation to generation and belong to the heritage of the people there. Until today Fowa hosts hundreds of workshops and is also home to Mandarah's rugs.

Also, the kilim rug is much more than a pretty floor decoration. A very popular way of using it is to use it as a wall-hanging. Back then, nomads were decorating the walls of their tents with kilim rugs and even used it to make the rides on donkeys, camels or other 4-legged friends more comfortable. Rugs were also used as trading-products and were popular gifts to families and friends. It truly is a multi-purpose product.

Kilim rugs hold many more secrets and stories between their woven lines - we welcome you to bring a piece of the magical ancient Egypt into your home.