The Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Hungary inaugurated the exhibition “Zellige: Morocco’s Historical Legacy and Living Heritage” at the MÉTA Space of the Museum of Ethnography in Budapest.
The exhibition invites Hungarian and international visitors to discover one of Morocco’s most emblematic artistic traditions: zellige, the ancestral art of hand-cut glazed terracotta mosaics. Renowned for its refined geometry, vivid colours and exceptional craftsmanship, zellige reflects a centuries-old Moroccan know-how carefully transmitted from one generation of master artisans to the next.
The exhibition presents the historical evolution, aesthetic richness and cultural significance of zellige, from its early geometric motifs to its enduring presence in Moroccan architecture, palaces, mosques and contemporary design. It also offers insight into the meticulous artisanal process behind this living heritage, from the preparation and firing of clay to the precise cutting, shaping and assembly of each individual tile.
The presentation of zellige at one of Hungary’s leading cultural institutions reflects the shared commitment of Morocco and Hungary to fostering cultural dialogue and deepening mutual understanding.
Through this exhibition, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco contributes to strengthening the longstanding ties of friendship and cooperation between the two countries, with culture and heritage serving as privileged channels for exchange, rapprochement and people-to-people connection.
On this occasion, both Ambasssador of the Kingdom of Morocco to Hungary, H.E Ms. Karima Kabbaj and President of UNESCO Hungarian National Commission, H.E Ms. Katalin Bogyay, emphasized that Moroccan zellige is far more than a decorative art. It is a profound expression of identity, memory and continuity, bringing together mathematics, spirituality, craftsmanship and artistic imagination in a visual language defined by harmony, precision and beauty.
The exhibition “Zellige: Morocco’s Historical Legacy and Living Heritage” is open at the MÉTA Space of the Museum of Ethnography, Budapest, until 28 June 2026, and can be visited with a valid exhibition ticket.
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