غليظ أبو لحية

“Lost in these alleys, wouldn’t you say?” a voice chuckled nearby. We find ourselves before Bab Bou Jeloud, the magnificent blue gate. It’s more than just an entrance to the Fes el Bali. It’s a portal, a time machine whisking you away to a world where donkeys laden with goods navigate ancient, winding streets. Bab Bou Jeloud, with its vibrant blue tiles, stands as a vibrant testament to Fes’s rich history. This gateway to the old city, also known as Fes el Bali, is a transition point. It’s where the modern world seems to pause, allowing the ancient medina to retain its timeless charm. Fes el Bali is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Within its walls lies the Karaouiyine Mosque, founded in the 9th century. This mosque isn’t just a place of worship. It’s home to the University of Al Quaraouiyine, recognized by UNESCO as the oldest existing, and continually operating educational institution in the world. Imagine students debating philosophy and studying astronomy within these ancient walls, a tradition that began in 859 AD. Beyond the mosque and university, Fes el Bali is a sensory feast. The scent of leather from the Chouara Tannery, the oldest and largest in Fes, hangs in the air, a pungent reminder of an age-old craft. Wander deeper into the medina. You’ll discover the Bou Inania Madrasa, a 14th-century marvel of architecture. Its intricate tilework and serene courtyard offer a peaceful escape from the bustling souks. This medina whispers stories of sultans and scholars, artisans and merchants. It’s a place where time seems to slow down. You become immersed in the sights, sounds, and smells of a city that has held onto its traditions for over a thousand years. The blue gate, Bab Bou Jeloud, reminds us that stepping into Fes el Bali isn’t just visiting a place. It’s stepping back in time.