Moroccan Zellige is a traditional handcrafted tile made of glazed terracotta, cut and fired by hand in Morocco. Each small piece is shaped roughly square or hexagonal, coated with a colored glaze and fired in a wood-burning kiln. Because every step is manual, no two Zellige tiles are identical — each one keeps its own color depth, tiny cracks and irregular edges.
The Long History of Zellige
Zellige has been made since the 10th century. It first appeared in Morocco, probably in Fez, and was perfected under the Marinid dynasty in the 14th century when artisans discovered double firing and polychrome glazes. Under the Saadian dynasty in the 16th century, Zellige reached its artistic peak in palaces, mosques and royal tombs. It remains the signature decorative material of Moroccan architecture.
What Makes Zellige Different from Ceramic Tiles?
Industrial ceramic tiles are pressed from powder, glazed by machine and fired flat, which makes them perfectly identical and glossy. Zellige is the opposite: it is softened clay, pressed lightly by hand, glazed by pouring, and fired in a kiln. The result is a surface with subtle imperfections — small undulations, fine glaze cracks and tonal variations — that catch the light in a way flat machine tiles never can.
Available Sizes
Authentic Zellige is produced in several classic formats. At ISLATILE we offer:
- 5x5 cm Zellige tiles — the classic mosaic format, ideal for backsplashes and pattern work.
- 10x10 cm Zellige tiles — larger squares that cover walls faster.
- Hexagonal Zellige tiles — honeycomb shapes for geometric, contemporary designs.
How Many Colors Does Zellige Come In?
Genuine Zellige is available in an extremely wide palette. Our collection includes more than 50 colors, from the traditional Fez shades — emerald and mint green, cobalt and sky blue, ochre yellow, terracotta, black and white — to modern muted and pastel tones. Browse every color in our gallery.
Where Is Authentic Zellige Made?
Authentic Zellige is made in Fez, Morocco. ISLATILE works directly with Fez artisan workshops, so you buy from the historic center of this craft. Read why Moroccan Zellige is handmade to understand the difference this makes.
Is Zellige for You?
Zellige suits kitchens, bathrooms, feature walls, hotels, restaurants and heritage renovation projects. It can be used on floors but is most famous on walls where its reflective glaze shines. If you are planning a project, start with our complete Zellige buying guide, and remember: add approximately 10% extra material for breakage, cutting and installation waste.