The city of Aleppo – How it all began:
- Aleppo, one of the oldest cities in the world, is known for its millennia-old craft tradition. Located in the heart of Syria, Aleppo an important trading center. In addition to silk fabrics and spices, the world-famous Aleppo soap was produced here. Generations of master craftsmen have perfected the art of soapmaking and passed the knowledge on to their descendants.
History of Aleppo Soap
- For centuries, natural soap from Aleppo has been made in Aleppo using natural ingredients such as olive oil and laurel oil. This long tradition shapes the character of the soap.
Traditional production in Aleppo
- Aleppo soap is made using a centuries-old method. In Aleppo, olive oil and lye are saponified before laurel oil is added. After saponification, the soap mass is poured, cut, and then dried for several months in well-ventilated halls. This process contributes to the soap's strength and durability.
Boiling process and drying
After boiling, the soap mixture is poured into molds, cooled, and then cut by hand. The subsequent drying process ensures that the soap achieves its solid structure.
UNESCO World Heritage Site:
The Old City of Aleppo It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. Traditional soap making in Aleppo was recognized as a World Heritage Site in 2024. intangible cultural heritage accepted.
wholesale center:
- For many centuries, Aleppo was a major trading center, situated on important trade routes between East and West, including the historic Silk Road. Before the development of modern maritime trade routes, the city played a central role in international commerce.
- One of the most famous traditional products of the region is Aleppo soap, which has been produced for generations by various artisan and merchant families, including producers such as Zanabili and Sharabati.
