Marrakech: Islamic Calligraphy Workshop with Master & Pastries

Learn classic Arabic calligraphy in Marrakech’s old city with a local master, hands-on practice, tea and pastries, plus a small gift to keep

You’ll step into a quiet corner of Marrakech to learn Islamic calligraphy from a local master. Try your hand at ancient writing methods, sip mint tea with fresh pastries, and bring home your own handwritten piece plus a special gift. A little memory you might not expect to linger.

Step-by-step itinerary

Islamic calligraphy workshop in Marrakech

• Meet local calligraphy teacher
• Receive essential calligraphy equipment
• Explore finest Islamic manuscript examples
• Learn Arabic alphabet writing
• Practice ancient calligraphy methods
• Receive unique participant gift

The Experience

The first thing I noticed was the quiet inside the Marrakesh Museum: cool stone underfoot and that faint scent of old paper and ink. Our calligraphy teacher, Youssef, smiled as he handed me a reed pen. “Hold it like this,” he said, showing me how his fingers curled around it. My lines came out wobbly at first (he just grinned), but there was something calming about the scratchy sound on thick paper. Sunlight came through these high windows and caught dust motes in the air. I kept getting distracted watching them float.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much during an Islamic calligraphy workshop in Marrakech. Youssef told us stories about his grandfather teaching him the same alphabet strokes we were trying now. He poured mint tea for everyone and passed around these sweet, crumbly Moroccan cookies: honestly, I got powdered sugar on my sleeve. There was this moment where I finally wrote one letter right and he nodded quietly. I felt weirdly proud for such a small thing.

We saw real manuscripts too, pages older than any of us, with gold details that looked almost alive in the afternoon light. At the end, Youssef wrapped up our practice sheets with twine and gave each of us a tiny ink pot as a gift. Walking out into the noise of Marrakech again felt strange after all that focused silence inside. Sometimes when I see my little ink pot at home now, I remember how peaceful those two hours felt: like time slowed down for once.

What’s included

Your experience includes all calligraphy materials, guidance from a local master teacher, coffee or tea with Moroccan pastries during your session, plus a special gift to take home at the end of your time in Marrakech’s museum quarter.

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller friendlyInfant seats availablePets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by The Alternative Morocco

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Top questions

Is this Islamic calligraphy workshop in Marrakech suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s designed for all levels, even if you’ve never tried calligraphy before.

Are materials provided during the workshop?

All necessary equipment is included. You don’t need to bring anything.

Is food or drink included?

You’ll get coffee or tea along with traditional Moroccan pastries during the session.

Where does the workshop take place?

The workshop is held at or near the Marrakesh Museum (Musée de Marrakech).

Is the workshop wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

Can infants or young children join?

Infants and small children can join. Prams or strollers are allowed and infant seats are available.

Will I get something to take home from the workshop?

Yes, each participant receives a unique gift, usually related to calligraphy, and their own practice sheets.

How long does the Islamic calligraphy class last?

The workshop lasts about two hours.