Moroccan Rugs: A Complete Buying Guide — Berber, Beni Ourain & More
Moroccan rugs have exploded in popularity over the past decade, beloved by interior designers and homeowners for their minimalist geometric patterns and soft, shaggy pile. But what exactly are Moroccan rugs, what makes them unique, and how do you find an authentic one? This complete guide covers everything you need to know.
What Makes Moroccan Rugs Different
Moroccan rugs are woven by Berber (Amazigh) women in the Atlas Mountains and other regions of Morocco. Unlike Persian rugs, which are typically woven by professional artisans in urban workshops, Moroccan rugs are made in a more intimate domestic tradition — often woven by a single woman or a small group, with patterns passed down through generations or improvised during the weaving process.
The most distinctive features of Moroccan rugs:
- Simple, bold geometric patterns — Diamonds, lozenges, zigzags, and abstract symbols rather than elaborate floral designs
- High pile — Many Moroccan rugs have a thick, soft, shaggy pile
- Natural colors — Traditional pieces use natural undyed wool in cream and dark brown; modern pieces may use natural plant dyes in soft pastels
- Symbolism — The geometric patterns carry symbolic meaning related to protection, fertility, and tribal identity
Types of Moroccan Rugs
Beni Ourain Rugs
Beni Ourain rugs are the most famous Moroccan rug style — high-pile, cream-white rugs with simple black or dark brown geometric symbols. They've become enormously popular in Scandinavian-inspired, minimalist, and modern interiors. Authentic Beni Ourain rugs are hand-knotted with high-quality wool from the Beni Ourain tribe of the Middle Atlas Mountains.
Boucherouite Rugs
Boucherouite rugs are colorful patchwork rugs made from recycled fabric scraps. Each one is completely unique and highly colorful. They have a more folk-art quality and work beautifully in eclectic or bohemian interiors.
Azilal Rugs
Azilal rugs come from the Azilal province of the High Atlas. They typically feature a cream or ivory background with colorful abstract geometric patterns — more colorful than Beni Ourain but less chaotic than Boucherouite.
Kilim (Berber Flatweave)
Moroccan Kilims are flat-woven (no pile) with bold geometric patterns. They're lighter and more versatile than pile rugs — great as wall hangings, throws, or in spaces that need a lighter-weight covering.
Where to Buy Authentic Moroccan Rugs Online
When buying Moroccan rugs online, look for sellers who can verify the authenticity and origin of their pieces. At BestRugPlace, our Moroccan rugs are all hand-knotted with authentic Moroccan wool and guaranteed authentic. Browse our collection with free shipping and free returns.