Aleppo soap is made using a traditional method passed down through generations and based on a long tradition of craftsmanship. Aleppo soap is among the oldest natural soaps in the world and is produced at Sharabati using time-honored methods.
Step-by-step guide to the production process of Aleppo soap
1. Cooking the components
In the first step, olive oil is heated in large kettles. This process can take several days, during which the mixture is stirred regularly. Water and lye are then added to initiate the saponification process.
2. Saponification
The reaction of oils and lye creates the soap mass. This process is crucial for the final properties of the soap.
3. Adding the bay laurel oil
Shortly before the saponification process is complete, laurel oil is added. The proportion varies depending on the recipe and contributes to the characteristic composition of Aleppo soap.
4. Processing the soap mass
After the saponification process, excess lye is reduced and the soap mass is further processed to obtain a uniform structure.
5. Spread out and dry
The soap mixture is poured out onto large surfaces, smoothed, and left to cool until it reaches a firm but still cuttable consistency.
6. Cutting the soap
The still-warm soap mixture is cut into uniform blocks. This is done using traditional tools and requires artisanal experience to obtain even pieces.
7. Stamp
Each bar of soap is stamped with the manufacturer's traditional mark, indicating its origin and authenticity.
8. Storage and maturation
The soap bars are stacked and stored for several months. During this time, the soap's outer color changes due to natural maturation and drying processes.
World Heritage Site
The old city of Aleppo was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. Traditional soap making is part of this cultural heritage and continues to this day in its traditional form.
