Bab Boujloud, Fes: The Blue Gate to the Medina
Bab Boujloud is the grand blue gate that marks the main western entrance to Fes el-Bali, the old medina of Fes. Although it dates only from the early 20th century, it has become the symbol of the city, and almost every visit to the medina starts or ends here.
At a glance
- Built
- 1913
- Colours
- Blue outside, green inside
- Style
- Moorish
- Allow
- 15 to 30 minutes
- Leads to
- Talaa Kebira and Talaa Sghira
In this guide
History and design
The gate was built in 1913, during the French protectorate, to create a monumental entrance to the old town. It was designed in a Hispano-Moorish style, with horseshoe arches and zellige tiles. The outer face is blue, the colour of Fes, while the inner face is green, the colour of Islam.
What to see
- The gate: photograph it in morning light and again at dusk, when it is lit.
- Place Bou Jeloud: a lively square with cafes and street food just inside the gate.
- The two main streets: Talaa Kebira and Talaa Sghira lead through the medina towards the tanneries and Al-Qarawiyyin.
Nearby sights
Within a short walk are the Bou Inania Madrasa, the Al Attarine Madrasa and the Nejjarine Museum. Read our full Fes guide for a day plan.
Visiting tips
- Use the gate as a landmark: it is the easiest place to meet a guide or find your way back.
- Agree a price with guides in advance, and use official guides.
- Evening is lively, with cafes and food stalls, but be aware of touts.
Getting there
Petit taxis drop visitors outside the gate, from the train station or the new town. See getting around Morocco and our architecture guide.
Why start your medina visit here
Bab Boujloud sits on the western edge of Fes el-Bali. From the gate, two main streets lead downhill through the medina: Talaa Kebira, the long main street, and Talaa Sghira, a parallel street. Both pass shops, fountains and landmarks and are the easiest routes for newcomers.
What to look for on the gate
- The three horseshoe arches, with the central one used by pedestrians and carts.
- The blue zellige on the outside and green on the inside.
- The calligraphic bands and the geometric patterns on the sides.
Eating near the gate
Cafes and small restaurants just inside the gate serve mint tea, sandwiches and traditional dishes such as pastilla and tagine. For a quick snack, try local pastries or a freshly squeezed juice. See our food guide for ideas.
Safety and guides
Touts often wait near the gate and offer to show you around. If you want a guide, book one through your hotel or an official office. Otherwise, a polite no and continuing to walk usually works. For more advice, read our Morocco travel tips.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Bab Boujloud blue?
Blue is the traditional colour of Fes. The inner side is green, the colour associated with Islam.
How old is Bab Boujloud?
It dates from 1913, although it stands at an older entrance to the medina.
Is Bab Boujloud worth visiting?
Yes. It is an iconic photo spot and the best starting point for exploring the medina.