Explore the Iconic Role of Moroccan Water Sellers

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Two men in traditional red attire with decorative hats and leather bags, standing side by side outdoors.

Shown here are traditional Moroccan water sellers. Known as a guerrab they are iconic cultural figures in historic Moroccan cities like Marrakech and Fez.

Traditionally attired in bright red djellaba (robe) and a large, ornate conical hat decorated with tassels, pom-poms, and shiny coins with a cured goatskin bag slung over their shoulders that naturally keeps the water cool. Carrying a cluster of shiny bronze or brass cups clipped to their strap or chest, used to pour water for clients. They have a handheld or belt-mounted copper bell that they ring to announce their presence in crowded souks.

A man wearing a colorful, decorative headdress with tassels and beads. He is dressed in a red outfit and has two brass pots hanging from his neck.

Before modern plumbing and bottled water, guerrabs were essential public workers who transported fresh spring water from the city outskirts into busy markets and homes. The trade was historically tied to community service and sadaqa (charity), where sellers would offer water for a few coins or sometimes simply in exchange for a prayer.