Al Majdal was a vibrant town on the Mediterranean coast of Palestine, known for its excellent weavers. Today, it is known by its Israeli name: Ashkelon. Majdalawi fabric is considered to be one of the oldest types of fabrics from the Middle East, along with Damask Silk and Egyptian Cotton. Majdalawi weaving is traditionally woven by a male weaver on a single treadle loom. It was traditionally sold in eight-meter pieces, or the length required to produce a single Palestinian thobe dress. The dresses made from it were sewn with silk and reeds, handrolled on a type of cashmere fabric. Their colors were said to be very consistent, making it a highly desirable dress.