Bab Bou Jeloud (The Blue Gate)
Fez, Morocco · Landmark
About Bab Bou Jeloud (The Blue Gate)
Bab Bou Jeloud, commonly known as the Blue Gate, is the monumental western entrance to the historic medina of Fes el-Bali. Constructed in 1913, the triple-arched gate is adorned with elaborate Moroccan arabesques and vibrant zellij mosaic tilework. It is world-famous as the striking visual boundary where the modern city transitions into one of the oldest car-free medieval centers on Earth.
Don't miss
- Marvel at the contrasting tilework featuring brilliant cobalt blue on the outer facade and deep Islamic green on the medina-facing side.
- Frame iconic photos of the Medersa Bou Inania minaret peeking through the gate's majestic central arch.
- Sit at an adjacent rooftop cafe terrace to sip mint tea and watch the lively flow of medina life below.
- Step from the wide open square into the beginnings of Tala'a Kebira and Tala'a Seghira, the medina's primary thoroughfares.
Plan your visit
Early morning is best for capturing clear photos without large crowds, while late afternoon offers gorgeous golden light on the glazed tiles.
Bab Bou Jeloud is a public city gateway that is free to visit at all hours with no tickets required.
Take an inexpensive red petit taxi from the Ville Nouvelle directly to Place Bou Jeloud, which stops right outside the gate. If already inside the medina, you can walk uphill along Tala'a Kebira to reach it.
Tips for visiting
- Step onto both sides of the gate to see how the color palette shifts dramatically between the exterior and interior facades.
- Keep an ear out for shouts of 'Balak!' to make way for passing handcarts, luggage porters, and pack donkeys.
- Politely decline unsolicited offers from informal guides lingering around the entrance seeking to lead you into the medina.
- Use the gate as an easy meeting point and navigation anchor, as the medina's two main avenues diverge immediately behind it.
- Climb up to the rooftop of a nearby cafe around dusk to hear the simultaneous evening calls to prayer echoing across the old city.
Bab Bou Jeloud (The Blue Gate) FAQ
Why are the two sides of the gate different colors?
The exterior facing side is tiled in cobalt blue, which is the signature color of Fez and its famed ceramics tradition. The interior side is decorated in emerald green, the traditional color of Islam, welcoming visitors into the sacred medieval city.
Are cars allowed to drive through the gate?
No, motorized road vehicles are completely prohibited from driving through Bab Bou Jeloud into the medina. Fes el-Bali is the largest contiguous car-free urban area in the world, so only pedestrians and pack animals can pass.
Is the area around Bab Bou Jeloud safe at night?
The square and main streets immediately around the gate remain lively, well-lit, and generally safe late into the evening due to local restaurants and shops. However, keep valuables secure against pickpockets and avoid wandering deep down dark, unlit residential alleys after hours.
How old is the gate?
The current ornamental gate was erected in 1913 during the French protectorate era. It replaced a much older, simpler 12th-century stone gate that was built as part of the original Almohad fortifications.
More things to do in Fez
Chouara Tannery Landmark
Watch leather artisans dye hides using traditional methods from surrounding rooftop viewing terraces.
Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University Landmark
Glimpse into one of the oldest operating educational institutions in the world.
Bou Inania Madrasa Landmark
Marvel at stunning examples of Marinid architecture, intricate cedar woodwork, and detailed zellij tilework.
Mellah (Jewish Quarter) Neighborhood
Stroll through historic alleys to see distinctive wooden balconies, the Jewish Cemetery, and Ibn Danan Synagogue.
Marinid Tombs Landmark
Hike or take a short taxi up the hill for sweeping panoramic views across the ancient medina at sunset.
Place Seffarine Neighborhood
Listen to the rhythmic hammering of coppersmiths crafting pots and cauldrons in this lively artisan square.
Dar Batha Museum Museum
Explore Moroccan arts and craftsmanship housed inside a former royal palace with a serene Andalusian garden.
AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: papannon, Giselleinmotion on Pixabay.