The Camel (al-Jamal; الجمل)

Traditional Soapcraft

The Al-Shakaa Soap Factory has produced traditional Nabulsi soap for over 180 years and is a historical landmark in the old city of Nablus. The camel imprint took its mascot from camel trains that used to carry in qilw soda ash. 

Despite competition from various imported soaps, Al-Shakaa Soap Factory continues to resist and maintain its heritage. Built as a family craft, it has been passed down from fathers to sons and grandsons. The soap is still made with traditional manual methods, where natural ingredients cook over fire for 5-6 days, then are poured onto the ground and cut into squares.

Historic Roots

The Al-Shakaa factory owner was one of the leaders of the 1936 Palestinian Revolution and convened political meetings in the building. On April 19, 1936, a significant meeting was held in the factory, during which the foundations and principles of the Great Palestinian Revolution of 1936 were established. The meeting agreed on the formation of the National Committee to oversee the national movement and the declaration of a general strike in Nablus, calling for other Palestinian cities to join the strike.