Workshops in Madaba: A Creative Traveler’s Guide

Madaba, a historic city located in central Jordan, is renowned for its intricate mosaics and biblical significance. One unique aspect of visiting Madaba is the opportunity to engage with local artisans at their workshops. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your creative journey:

1. Map of Madaba Mosaic Church

Start your exploration at the famous Madaba Map, a Byzantine mosaic map of the Holy Land, located within the Madaba Greek Orthodox Church. After appreciating this masterpiece, take a moment to inquire about nearby workshops where you can learn from local artisans.

2. Mosaic Workshops

Madaba’s mosaic workshops are where traditional techniques are preserved and passed down through generations. You can observe the meticulous process of creating these colorful masterpieces, from designing patterns to cutting and arranging tesserae (small pieces of stone or glass). Some popular workshops include:

• Yasin Mosaic Company (Al-Husseini Bin Talal Street): Known for its high-quality work, this workshop offers guided tours and mosaic-making classes.
• St. Symeon’s Church Workshop (King Hussain Bin Talal St.): Located within the beautiful St. Symeon’s church, this workshop provides an authentic experience of traditional mosaic making.

3. Silk Weaving Workshops

Madaba is also recognized for its exquisite silk weaving. Visit workshops to see how artisans create intricate designs on raw silk using traditional Jordanian patterns. Some places to explore include:

• Al-Khader Silk Factory (King Hussain Bin Talal Street): This family-run factory offers guided tours and the opportunity to learn about the silk weaving process.
• Madaba Weavers Cooperative Society (King Hussein bin Talal St.): A social enterprise that empowers local women through employment, this cooperative produces beautiful hand-woven products.

4. Tips for Visiting Workshops in Madaba

• Research ahead: Some workshops may require booking in advance, especially if you’d like to participate in a class or tour.
• Dress appropriately: Modest attire is expected when visiting religious sites and workshops.
• Be respectful: Show interest and ask questions, but remember that these are working studios, not museums.
• Bargain politely: It’s customary to bargain for prices in Madaba’s workshops. However, be mindful of the artisans’ time and effort.
• Support local artisans: By purchasing locally made products, you help preserve these age-old traditions.