Hagaza Wood Carving Project

The woodcarving project in the village of Hagaza, some 30 km from Luxor started in 1986. A special workshop has been established to train young men (aged from 16 to 19) through an intensive program lasting 3 years. 

This workshop developed from the initiative of a young French monk who taught a first group in the production of small wood-carved objects helping them to increase their income and to live a decent life.

The product designs are widely inspired from nature, including animals and plants. Combining modernity and tradition, the artisans draw inspiration from ancient Egyptian drawings and objects such as can be seen in various museums over the world.

Church workers in the area have been helping to alleviate their situation by bringing their products to Cairo. Nowadays, the weavers of Naqada are producing a series of new products, mainly light scarves from high-quality cotton in various designs and colours.