Tatreez (Levantine Arabic: تَطْرِيز, romanized: taṭrīz) is a form of traditional Palestinian embroidery. Tatreez, meaning "embroidery" in Arabic, is used to refer to the traditional style of embroidery practiced in Palestine and Palestinian diaspora communities. The contemporary form of tatreez is often dated back to the 19th century. The style of cross-stitch embroidery called fallaḥi has been practiced amongst Arab communities in the Mediterranean for centuries. The embroidery is particularly associated with embellishments on traditional dress like the thobe, with the motifs and colors representing regional identity and social relationships. Tatreez is commonly used on garments and includes a variety of symbols, including birds, trees, and flowers. The craft was originally practiced in rural areas of Palestine, but is now common across the Palestinian diaspora. In 2021, the art of embroidery in Palestine was recognized by UNESCO as an important intangible cultural heritage. According to Reem Kassis, this style of embroidery in particular is often celebrated as one of the most rich and exquisite.
Historically, each village in Palestine had distinct tatreez patterns, with unique designs telling stories about the local people, legends, animals and plants, and beliefs. The different styles of tatreez have become less distinct and have continued to evolve with the diaspora. The practice of tatreez has accreted an additional politicized significance within the context of Palestinian displacement and resistance. Tatreez patterns have incorporated nationalist symbolism within the Nakba, the Intilaqa of January 1, 1965, and the 1967 Six-Day War, and the practice remains imbued with social significance as a way to embody and propagate cultural heritage.
