Diwan - Sancal

The word Diwan has a long etymological history. From India to Persia, passing through the Ottoman Empire and the entire Maghreb, the diwan was the “ambassadors' room” in which royalty received foreign leaders. As a sign of appreciation, these guests were treated to all kinds of luxuries, one of which consisted of lying down comfortably to talk. Hence, in Europe the word divan is used to refer to a type of elongated seat that usually lacks a backrest and is used to lie down.