Bab Mansur al-'Alj or Bab Mansour is a monumental gate in the city of Meknes, Morocco. Located on the south side of Place el-Hedim in the old city, it was originally the main ceremonial entrance to the Kasbah of Sultan Moulay Isma'il, built in the late 17th and early 18th centuries.
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🇲🇦🇲🇦🇲🇦 Bab Mansour Al-Laaj, commonly known as "Bab Mansour," is one of the most magnificent and renowned historical gates in the Moroccan city of Meknes. It stands as a unique architectural masterpiece and a testament to the grandeur of Merinid and Alawite architecture. Construction and History Period: The construction of Bab Mansour dates back to the late 17th and early 18th centuries, specifically during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail (1672-1727), one of the greatest sultans of the Alawite dynasty. Its construction was completed in 1732, after Moulay Ismail's death, during the rule of his son Moulay Abdellah. Location: The gate is situated on the southern side of the famous El Hedim Square, serving as the main entrance to the Imperial City (the Sultan's Kasbah) that Moulay Ismail built to be his capital. Architect: The design and execution of the gate are attributed to a Christian architect who converted to Islam, reportedly named "Al-Laaj" or "Mansour Al-Laaj." Hence, the gate was named after him. "Al-Laaj" (العلج) is an Arabic word meaning "foreigner" or "non-Muslim." Architectural Design and Ornamentation Grand Gateway: Bab Mansour is considered one of the largest and most elaborate gates in Morocco and North Africa. It features a massive design centered around a large, ornate arch, flanked by prominent medallions bearing intricate inscriptions, Quranic verses, and delicate botanical and geometric patterns. Decorations: The gate is famous for its rich and diverse ornamentation, reflecting the pinnacle of Moroccan architecture during that period. It prominently features multi-colored zellige (mosaic) work, stucco carvings, marble panels, and calligraphic inscriptions in both Kufic and Naskh scripts that glorify God and the Sultan. Symbolism: More than just an entrance, the gate symbolized the Sultan's power and prestige, serving as a ceremonial entrance to the royal palace. Contemporary Significance Tourist Attraction: Today, Bab Mansour Al-Laaj is one of the most important tourist attractions in Meknes, drawing thousands of visitors annually from around the world to admire its architectural beauty and grandeur. Historical Site: The gate is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the historic city of Meknes, standing as a living testament to Morocco's rich history and unique architectural arts. City Symbol: The gate has become a distinctive symbol of Meknes, serving as a major meeting point for both locals and tourists, and forming a backdrop for numerous cultural and artistic events held in El Hedim Square. Bab Mansour Al-Laaj is not merely a gate; it is a living page from Morocco's history, narrating tales of art, power, and the cultural identity of the...
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5 Stars – An Unforgettable Desert Experience!
Staying at Merzouga Paradise Luxury Camp was truly the highlight of our trip to Morocco! From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warmth and genuine hospitality. The tents were spotless, beautifully decorated, and surprisingly comfortable—with real beds, private bathrooms, and even hot showers!
The food was absolutely delicious—freshly cooked Moroccan dishes served under the stars by the campfire. The camel ride at sunset through the golden dunes was magical, and the Berber music around the fire at night created memories we’ll never forget.
What really sets this place apart is the team. They treated us like family, always checking if we needed anything and sharing their culture with pride. We felt safe, relaxed, and completely disconnected from the noise of the world.
If you’re looking for a peaceful, authentic, and luxurious desert experience—this is the place. Highly recommend it to anyone...
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Very disappointing. The whole city is going a renovation. All monuments and important buildings are covered and closed. The renovation started 5 years ago and got delayed because of COVID. Some say everything will be finished by the end of this year (2023) ... Others that it won't be finished until April 2024, at least. I used the Moroccan oficial website to planed my trip. Nothing in there suggested that everything was closed and that there was not point in coming here. It was a...
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