Bab Mansour
The most majestic monumental gate in the Maghreb, completed in 1732
About this site
Bab Mansour, or Bab Mansour el-Aleuj, marks the main entrance to the former imperial city of Meknes, facing the famous El Hedim Square. Begun in the final years of the reign of the Alaouite sultan Moulay Ismail (1672-1727), it was completed in 1732 by his son and successor Moulay Abdallah. It takes its name from its architect, a Christian convert to Islam nicknamed 'el-Aleuj' (the renegade).
Standing around sixteen metres high, the gate impresses with the density of its decoration: green and white polychrome zellige, calligraphic inscriptions and, remarkably, antique marble columns salvaged from the nearby archaeological site of Volubilis. Considered one of the finest monumental gates in North Africa, it reflects Moulay Ismail's vision of turning Meknes into a 'Versailles of the South' rivalling the greatest capitals of his time.
Bab Mansour has been protected as a historic monument since 1914. An interior gallery now occasionally hosts art exhibitions.
Practical information
Free entry
Access to this site is completely free — no reservation or ticket required. Simply show up at the entrance during opening hours.
Opening hours may vary depending on the cultural programme. Check on-site before your visit.
Prices
Guided tour via our partnerIncluded in a guided tour bookable via our partner — this site does not offer a separate standalone entry ticket.
Online booking
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