Pirot Kilim

Pirot kilim, one of the major Serbian brands, is still produced, resisting time and modern technologies, out of sheep wool from Stara Planina, with the aid of small tool called tupica and hardworking weavers hands.

In addition to the rich patterns and ornaments, this symbol of the town of Pirot also preserves history, traditions, legends and myths that have been transferred from generation to generation for years.

Lengthy process of kilim making begins with snovanje (forming the longitudinal thread system as a basis for weaving). In this process, the weavers usetheir fingers instead of meters and the whole procedure is strict manual work. Due to the complexity of the pattern and the lack of machinery, it takes months to make a single Pirot kilim. The unique final product that is a real work of art justifies the time and effort invested in it.

The uniqueness of Pirot kilims, and the reason why they became so famous in the whole world, lies in the fact that kilims have two identical sides. The knowledge of precise and complex carpet making in Pirot is transferred from one generation to another since ancient times. However, the demand for this product is significantly lower nowadays – not so long ago there were two thousand and five hundred women engaged in kilim making business, but today there are only 25 of them left.

In addition of making, weavers are also engaged in restoration of old kilims. This procedure is applied to old and damaged kilims. To preserve the family heritage, many people bring kilims that are often more than 100 years old. Those carpets are restored to their original state using a special procedure; the exceptional value of the procedure lies in the fact that tradition is saved from oblivion.

The reason why many people decide to buy this product of Pirot nowadays, is the symbolism that each carpet carries. There are kilims made for good health, wellbeing of the owner, happiness and luck in love, business success, against bad spells, negative energy, magic etc. Whether the stories about the strange powers of Pirot kilims are true, you will have to make sure for yourself.