Bab Bou Jeloud

Why is Bab Bou Jeloud blue? Well, let me tell you. Bab Bou Jeloud, also known as the Blue Gate, isn’t just a pretty face. This iconic gateway stands as the grand entrance to Fes el Bali, the old city of Fes. The French built this striking structure in 1913. They wanted a dramatic entryway into the ancient medina. But the story of Bab Bou Jeloud starts long before 1913. The name, meaning “Father of Troops”, refers to a nearby military square. This square, Place Bou Jeloud, was once a key gathering point, close to the old Kasbah Bou Jeloud. The original Bab Bou Jeloud was a much simpler affair. It was a modest gate. It likely dated back to the 12th century. This older gate still exists. You can see it tucked away beside its more flamboyant successor. The old gate’s passage was ingeniously designed for defense. It sat at an angle to the main street. This made it easier to control access. By the 20th century, such fortifications were more decorative than defensive. The French, eager to make their mark, decided a new gate was needed. After some careful negotiations and demolitions, the current Bab Bou Jeloud arose in 1913. It’s a beautiful blend of Moorish design. The gate boasts pointed horseshoe arches and a crenelated top. The intricate tilework is what truly captivates. The outer facade, a vibrant blue, is a nod to Fes’s famous blue pottery. But step through the gate, and you’ll find a different hue. The inner facade is a calming green, the color of Islam. Look up as you pass through the central arch. You can spot the minarets of the Bou Inania Madrasa and the Sidi Lazzaz Mosque. Bab Bou Jeloud marks the boundary. Beyond this point, cars rarely venture. It’s a transition from the modern world into a timeless labyrinth of winding alleyways. So, Bab Bou Jeloud. It’s more than just a gate. It’s a bridge between centuries. A symbol of Fes’s rich past and vibrant present.