Bab al-Amer (Gate of Order), Fes

The beatufilly preserved Bab al-Amer stands as a testament to Fes's rich history, serving as the former entrance to Fes el-Jdid, the royal city established in 1276 by the Marinids. Originally built as a fortified administrative center, Fes el-Jdid was surrounded by double walls, with this gate marking the western entrance to the district.

The name "Bab al-Amer" translates to "Gate of Order," likely referencing the presence of barracks for the city guards nearby. Initially, the area housed the sultan's regiments of Syrian archers; however, by the late 16th century, the district underwent transformation, becoming the Jewish quarter (Mellah) of the city.

As part of the changes under the French Protectorate in 1912, significant alterations were made to the area surrounding Bab al-Amer. The French administration deemed the gate too narrow for modern traffic and demolished the nearby aqueduct and portions of the surrounding wall to construct a main road. Additionally, they created Place du Commerce (now Place des Alaouites) on the site of the former Jewish cemetery to the northwest, transforming the landscape of the area.