Bab Lhadid, City gate in Medina of Fez, Morocco.
Bab Lhadid is a stone gateway with traditional Moroccan architectural features at the entrance to the Medina. The structure combines solid walls with carefully crafted details that frame the passage into the old city.
The gate was built in 859 and served as a strategic fortification point controlling access to the city. Its role shifted across different ruling periods but it remained a key point for managing entry.
The gate displays intricate Islamic geometric patterns and calligraphy carved into its stone surfaces. These decorative elements reflect the artistic values that shaped daily life in the medieval city.
The gate serves as the main entry point into the Medina and leads directly to narrow streets with shops and workshops. Visitors should allow time to explore the many details around the entrance area.
The gate retains its original closing mechanism with large wooden doors that once locked the city each night at sunset. This working system demonstrates how medieval security was practically applied in daily life.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
