Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate)

Bab Bou Jeloud, often referred to as the Blue Gate, is the most magnificent and well-known entrance to the historical Medina of Fez. The current gate was constructed in 1913 during the French protectorate era, replacing a much simpler 12th-century passage. Its striking architecture features three horseshoe arches adorned with elaborate zellij tilework. The exterior of the gate is finished in blue, the signature color of the city of Fez, while the interior shines in green, the traditional color of Islam. From the outside, the gate perfectly frames the minarets of the Bou Inania Madrasa and the Sidi Lazzaz Mosque, providing a spectacular photographic opportunity. Bab Bou Jeloud serves as a bustling meeting point and a crucial landmark for visitors entering the labyrinthine streets of the old city. The area surrounding the gate is filled with cafes and restaurants where one can observe the daily rhythm of Fez life. It stands as a symbol of the fusion between Moorish tradition and colonial architectural influence in Morocco.

Nearby cities

Fes

One of the oldest and most important imperial cities of Morocco.

Sefrou

A charming city near Fes, famous for its annual cherry festival.

Imouzzer Kandar

A mountain resort in the Middle Atlas, famous for its cool summer climate and apple orchards.

Meknes

One of the four imperial cities, shaped by Sultan Moulay Ismail.

Ifrane

Known as the 'Switzerland of Morocco' due to its alpine architecture and snow in winter.

Taounate

A hilly town in the southern Rif Mountains, characterized by olive and fig cultivation.

Igunga

A dry market town in the Tabora region, important for local livestock farming.

Sidi Kacem

An agricultural center in the fertile Rharb plain.

Azrou

A Berber town in the Middle Atlas known for its cedar forests.

Singida

The city of lakes, surrounded by two soda lakes and known for sunflower oil.

History & landmarks

Cherratine Madrasa

The Cherratine Madrasa is a historic Islamic college in the medina of Fez.

Mausoleum of Moulay Idris II

The Mausoleum of Moulay Idris II in Fez is one of the holiest sites in Morocco.

Al Attarine Madrasa

The Al Attarine Madrasa in Fez is a former Islamic college and a masterpiece of Marinid architecture.

Borj Sud

Borj Sud is an old fortress perched on the hills south of the Fez medina.

Aben Danan Synagogue

The Aben Danan Synagogue is a historic synagogue in the Jewish quarter (Mellah) of Fez.

Sahrij Madrasa

The Sahrij Madrasa is located in the Andalusian quarter of Fez and is known for its distinctive central water basin, from which it gets i…

Royal Palace of Fez

The Royal Palace of Fez (Dar el-Makhzen) is located in the Fez el-Jdid district and is famous for its seven massive brass doors.

Bhalil

A picturesque mountain village near Fes, famous for its ancient cave dwellings and traditional button-making craft.

Nature

Ouergha

A tributary of the Sebou river.

Tazeka

River in the Tazeka National Park.

More places

🗺️

Dar Batha Museum

An Andalusian-style former royal palace in Fes built in the late 19th century.

Fes Region

A central agricultural area for fruits and vegetables.

Hills near Moulay Idriss

Hilly landscape around the holy town.

Agropolis Meknes

An industrial park specialized in agro-industry and food processing in the heart of Morocco.

Roman City of Volubilis

One of the best-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa, famous for its beautiful mosaics.

🗺️

Sebou Basin

The most important agricultural basin in Morocco.

Meknes Zoo

A small but nice zoo in Meknes.

Middle Atlas

Mountain region known for cedar forests.