Moroccan Tile

Moroccan tiles are locally called zellige (= zellig, zellidj, zellij, zillij, zillig). Zellige is glazed terra cotta tile work in the form of small pieces set into plaster. It can easily be distinguished from other Mediterranean types of tile by its patterns, which often consist of elaborate geometrical and floral shapes. Popular applications include bathrooms, kitchens, floors, walls, pools, patios, fountains, tables etc. It is one of the major elements of Moorish design and architecture, and it is also very widespread in other Middle Eastern countries. Traditionally, dignitaries and patrons of the art used zellige to decorate their living spaces as a statement of luxury and sophistication.

The origins of zellige can be traced back over a millennium with the art as a whole being inspired by the famous Frumuseni Mosaics, which were created during the times of the Byzantine Empire. The peak of zellige craftsmanship is generally believed to have occurred during the Hispano-Moresque period (=Azulejo), in which the Moors conquered and ruled the Iberian Peninsula for about 800 years.

Related terms include Moroccan terra cotta/tesserae/carreaux, Moroccan ceramic tiles, Arabesque tiles, Moresque tiles, Spanish tiles, Andalusian tiles, and Medina tiles.

Moroccan tiles can be categorized into four main categories: mosaic tiles, chiseled or carved tiles, hand painted tiles, and field tiles. Some Moroccan tile manufacturers have begun recently to market cheaper ceramic and cement tiles imitating traditional zellige.