Traditional straw crafting in Ajloun continues to maintain its presence as a heritage craft deeply linked to the memory of the Jordanian countryside. Renowned for its health benefits and diverse household uses, it reflects the simplicity and authenticity of the past.
اضافة اعلان
Cultural Identity and Heritage
Samer Freihat, Director of Ajloun Culture, stated that traditional handicrafts, including straw weaving, form a vital part of the local community's cultural identity. This inherited legacy reflects the nature of ancient rural life. He noted that the directorate is keen on supporting artisans and participating in exhibitions to showcase these professions and protect them from extinction.
He added that straw products were historically used to store bread, grains, and various foods in a healthy and natural manner. Today, these crafts are seeing a resurgence in interest as awareness grows regarding environmental sustainability and the avoidance of harmful industrial materials.
The Craftsmanship Process
Amani Freihat, who has practiced the craft for years, explained that the profession requires patience, precision, and significant effort. The process begins with gathering wheat stalks and straw, followed by drying and dyeing them using water and natural colors before starting the manual shaping process.
She pointed out that making straw plates, baskets, and trays is an essential detail of daily village life. These items were used to store bread, pastries, grains, and fruits. According to Amani, straw preserves food for long periods and prevents moisture and air from spoiling it, making it a healthy and safe storage option.
Tourism and Economic Empowerment
Sabah Bani Salman, owner of a guesthouse in Ajloun, highlighted that heritage straw products have become a major attraction for tourists and visitors to rural homes, as they reflect the authentic local identity of the Jordanian rural environment.
She added that many visitors are interested in acquiring these products for serving traditional food, sweets, and Arabic coffee. Integrating heritage crafts into tourism projects contributes to supporting productive families and the economic empowerment of women.
A Historical Archive
Heritage researcher Mohammad Al-Shara' noted that straw crafting is one of the oldest traditional crafts known to Jordanian society. It was historically vital during harvest seasons for transporting wheat and storing provisions inside homes.
He emphasized that this craft represents a popular memory linked to the lives of ancestors and reflects how people once relied on natural materials available in their local environment. He called for documenting this heritage and teaching it to new generations through training workshops and heritage festivals.
(Petra - Ali Freihat)
