CultureTraditional Iraqi pottery vessels regain popularity amid modern health concerns

Large clay jars have traditionally been part of everyday life in Iraq, where they are used to store and cool drinking water. As more people seek alternatives to plastic, the handmade vessels are gaining renewed attention. In Duz Khurmatu, brothers Niaz and Nawazad Hayas are preserving a pottery craft passed down through their family. They produce markana water jars, cups and other items, while resident Tuba says she has used a markana for about 20 years because it gives water a naturally cool, refreshing taste.