Fez (Hat)

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The fez is a type of felt hat that originated from the city of Fez in Morocco. It is characterized by its cylindrical shape, usually red color, and sometimes adorned with a tassel at the top.

History

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The fez has its roots in the Ottoman era, where it was introduced to the Balkan Peninsula during Byzantine rule and later became a staple of traditional clothing for various Slavic peoples, including Bosniaks and Serbs. The hat gained popularity in Cyprus, where it is still worn today as part of the country's traditional attire.

Design and Variations

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The fez can be described as a rigid, conical headdress that takes its shape from the felt material. It is often confused with the shashia (also known as ṭarbūsh), which is a soft cap that adheres to the top of the head. While both hats share similarities, they have distinct differences in terms of design and construction.

Regional Significance

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The fez has played an important role in various cultures throughout history. In Cyprus, it is part of the traditional clothing worn by men, often paired with a red or black hat for women. The hat was also described by John Pinkerton during his 1811 trip to Cyprus as "a red coat lined with fur," part of a "Greek own out."

Etymology

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The fez takes its name from the city of Fez in Morocco, which was the capital until 1927. The hat's design and construction are believed to have originated from the Persian sarpūsh, while the term ṭarbūsh is used to describe the felt headdress.

See Also

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* Shashia (ṭarbūsh)
* Ottoman era
* Byzantine kingdom
* Cyprus traditional clothing