Atelier des Soeurs Franciscaines
Kasbah Myriem, Midelt-Tattiouine rd. (1km/ 2/3 mile from Midelt center)
About
Operated by Franciscan sisters since 1926, this weaving atelier (workshop) is an enlightening example of cooperation between the faiths. Franciscan sisters are inspired by the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, who during the Fifth Crusade in 1219 met with the Muslim Sultan of Egypt in an unprecedented gesture of dialogue and peace. Although the nun's established a convent shortly after their arrival in Midelt, an implicit aspect of their presence has also been a profound respect for the Muslim faith and a desire to collaborate with their Muslim neighbors. In an effort to respond to the needs of the local people, the sisters have over the years opened an orphanage, embroidery and weaving workshops, and a dispensary, as well as a primary school. Along with earning additional income for their families through the sale of their embroidery and weaving, the workshops allow the local women to pass on their skills to the younger generation. Currently, there are six sisters based in here who cover an impressive mix of nationalities (French, Irish, Polish, Korean, and Spanish). The sisters have moved from the convent to a smaller house within the compound, and the convent is now a monastery, Nôtre Dame de l'Atlas (www.notredameatlas.com), occupied by four Trappist monks. Visitors are welcome to visit the monastery, as well as attend the daily mass. Madame Nicole de Bono (embroidery section), Sister Monique (embroidery section), and Sister Teresa (weaving section) are usually on hand to show visitors through the workshop (an understanding of French is advantageous), though the local women have Fridays and Sundays off. The embroidery and weaving work is exceptional, and is available for sale in the form of blankets, tablecloths, and wool carpets.
