Bab Jedid, Medieval city gate in Medina of Tunis, Tunisia
Bab Jedid is a stone city gate in the Medina of Tunis serving as one of six entrances to the ancient walled district. The structure displays thick defensive walls characteristic of the original fortification system that once protected the city.
The gate was built in 1278 under the Hafsid dynasty as part of the city's defense strategy during a period of urban expansion. Its construction marked an important phase in controlling commerce and movement within the medieval city.
The gate is known as the Gate of the Blacksmiths because of the metalworking craftspeople who traditionally worked in the surrounding streets. Visitors can still observe artisans engaged in their trades in the nearby quarters today.
Access is straightforward via the main street of the same name, which leads directly to the Medina's central marketplace and is easy to navigate. Visiting during daytime hours allows you to see the stone details clearly and experience the activity in the surrounding area.
Inside the gate are integrated chambers that once served as guard posts and storage areas, revealing how commerce was monitored in medieval times. These spaces allowed authorities to control everyone and everything passing through the entrance.
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