Bab Bou Jeloud, also known as the Blue Gate, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Fez, Morocco. It is the main entrance to the old city, or medina, of Fez, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest car-free urban area in the world. Bab Bou Jeloud is more than just a gate; it is a symbol of the rich history, culture, and architecture of Fez, and a gateway to a fascinating world of ancient mosques, madrasas, souks, and tanneries.
In this article, you will learn about the history and significance of Bab Bou Jeloud, how to get there, what to see and do around the gate, and some tips and tricks to make the most of your visit. Whether you are a history buff, a culture lover, or a curious traveler, Bab Bou Jeloud is a must-see attraction in Fez that will leave you in awe.
The History and Significance of Bab Bou Jeloud
Bab Bou Jeloud, which means “Gate of the Green Father” in Arabic, was built in 1913 by the French during their colonial rule in Morocco. It replaced an older gate that dated back to the 12th century, when the Almohad dynasty founded the city of Fez. The new gate was designed by the French architect Henri Prost, who was inspired by the Moorish style of architecture that is prevalent in Andalusia, Spain.
The gate is made of ceramic tiles that form intricate geometric patterns. The most striking feature of the gate is its color: it is blue on the outside and green on the inside. The blue color represents the sky and the water, while the green color represents Islam and the color of the Prophet Muhammad’s cloak. Some also say that the blue color symbolizes Fez, while the green color symbolizes Meknes, another imperial city in Morocco.
The gate is flanked by two towers that have arched windows and balconies. Above the gate, there is a plaque that bears an inscription in Arabic and French, which reads: “His Majesty the Sultan Moulay Hafid, may God glorify him, ordered the construction of this gate in the year 1331 of the Hegira (1913 AD)”. The gate also has three horseshoe-shaped arches that lead to different parts of the medina: the left arch leads to the Andalusian quarter, the right arch leads to the Karaouine quarter, and the middle arch leads to the Talaa Kebira, the main street of the medina.
Bab Bou Jeloud is not only a beautiful and impressive structure, but also a significant one. It marks the boundary between the new city, or ville nouvelle, and the old city, or medina, of Fez. It is also a meeting point for locals and tourists, who gather around the gate to enjoy the lively atmosphere, the street performers, and the food stalls. Bab Bou Jeloud is the perfect introduction to the medina of Fez, which is a treasure trove of historical, cultural, and architectural wonders.
How to Get to Bab Bou Jeloud
Bab Bou Jeloud is located in the western part of the medina of Fez, near the Place Bou Jeloud, a large square that has a fountain and a garden. The easiest way to get to the gate is by taxi, which you can find anywhere in the city. You can also take a bus that stops near the gate, such as the number 16, 19, or 23. Alternatively, you can walk to the gate from the new city, which will take you about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on where you start.
Once you reach the gate, you will have to enter the medina on foot, as cars are not allowed inside. You can either explore the medina by yourself, or hire a local guide who can show you around and tell you more about the history and culture of Fez. You can also join a group tour that will take you to the main attractions of the medina, such as the Karaouine Mosque, the Bou Inania Madrasa, and the Chouara Tannery. However you choose to explore the medina, make sure you have a map or a GPS device with you, as the medina is a maze of narrow streets and alleys that can be confusing and overwhelming for first-time visitors.
What to See and Do Around Bab Bou Jeloud
Bab Bou Jeloud is not only a gate, but also a hub of activity and entertainment. There are many things to see and do around the gate, both inside and outside the medina. Here are some of the highlights:
- Admire the architecture and the craftsmanship of the gate, and take some photos of its stunning colors and patterns.
- Watch the street performers who entertain the crowds with music, dancing, acrobatics, and storytelling. You might also see some snake charmers, monkey trainers, and henna artists.
- Sample the local cuisine at the food stalls that line the street near the gate. You can find a variety of dishes, such as harira (a hearty soup), bissara (a fava bean dip), msemen (a flaky bread), and tagine (a stew cooked in a clay pot). Don’t forget to try the mint tea, the national drink of Morocco, and the pastries, such as chebakia (a honey-coated cookie) and briouat (a triangular pastry filled with nuts or cheese).
- Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts at the shops and stalls that surround the gate. You can find everything from leather goods, carpets, pottery, jewelry, spices, and more. Bargaining is expected and part of the fun, so don’t be shy to haggle for a good price.
- Visit the nearby attractions that are within walking distance from the gate, such as the Bou Inania Madrasa, a 14th-century Islamic school that has a beautiful courtyard and a minaret; the Dar Batha Museum, a former palace that houses a collection of Moroccan art and crafts; and the Jnan Sbil Garden, a peaceful oasis of greenery and fountains.
What is the best time to visit Bab Bou Jeloud?
The best time to visit Bab Bou Jeloud is in the morning or in the evening, when the light is softer and the colors are more vivid. You can also avoid the crowds and the heat by visiting early or late in the day. Bab Bou Jeloud is a beautiful and lively place that offers a glimpse into the history and culture of Fez.
Tips and Tricks to Make the Most of Your Visit
Bab Bou Jeloud is a popular and busy place, especially during the peak season and the weekends. To make the most of your visit, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- The best time to visit the gate is in the morning or in the evening, when the light is softer and the colors are more vivid. You can also avoid the crowds and the heat by visiting early or late in the day.
- Be respectful of the local culture and religion, and dress modestly when entering the medina. Avoid wearing shorts, skirts, tank tops, or anything that exposes too much skin. You should also cover your head if you plan to enter any mosques or religious buildings.
- Be aware of your surroundings and your belongings, and watch out for pickpockets and scammers. Don’t accept any unsolicited offers or services from strangers, and don’t follow anyone who claims to be a guide or a friend. If you need any help or information, ask a police officer or a shopkeeper.
- Enjoy the experience and the adventure of exploring the medina of Fez, and don’t be afraid to get lost. You will discover many hidden gems and surprises along the way, and you will always find your way back to the gate. Bab Bou Jeloud is not only a gate, but also a portal to a different world, a world that will enchant you and inspire you.
Conclusion
Bab Bou Jeloud is a magnificent gate that welcomes visitors to the medina of Fez, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, with blue and green tiles that reflect the sky and the religion. It is also a lively and vibrant place, where you can enjoy the food, the music, the shopping, and the culture of Fez. Bab Bou Jeloud is more than just a gate; it is a portal to a different world.