Bab Bou Jeloud (The Blue Gate)

The iconic blue-tiled gate and main entrance to Fes's ancient medina.

About this experience

Bab Bou Jeloud, also known as the Blue Gate, is the monumental western entrance to the Fes el-Bali medina and one of the most photographed landmarks in Morocco. Built in 1913 by the French colonial administration, the gate replaced a simple Almohad-era opening. Its stunning ceramic tilework (zellij) features brilliant cobalt blue on the outside facing the new city - the color traditionally associated with Fes - while the inner side is painted Islamic green. The horseshoe arch design is classic Moroccan, flanked by three smaller arches. From here, the medina's two main thoroughfares begin: Talaa Kebira (the Great Slope) and Talaa Seghira (the Small Slope), which run roughly parallel toward the heart of the medina. The area around the gate buzzes with cafes, souvenir shops, and ATMs - a convenient meeting point. The gate is especially stunning at sunset and when illuminated at night. The 25 kilometers of encircling ramparts with 13 monumental gates crown the hillside around Fes, and Bab Bou Jeloud is the grandest. It's the traditional starting point for any medina exploration. The blue tilework uses the Fassi blue technique perfected by local artisans over centuries[citation:8][citation:10].

Insider Tips

• Best photo at sunset when the golden light hits the blue tiles[citation:8]
• The inner side is green - walk through to see both
• Common meeting point for guided tours[citation:10]
• Cafes nearby serve mint tea with a view of the gate
• This is where Talaa Kebira and Talaa Seghira streets begin[citation:8]

Best Time to Visit

Best experienced during: Sunset, Golden hour, Night (illuminated)