Bou Jeloud Gardens (Jnan Sbil)
Fès-Meknès
Jnan Sbil Gardens, also called Bou Jeloud Gardens, is a historic urban park located between the two ancient sections of Fez's medina: Fes el-Jdid and Fes el-Bali. Established in the 19th century by Sultan Moulay Hassan I, the gardens were originally reserved for the royal family and connected to the Royal Palace by an underground passage. Covering approximately 7.5 to 8 hectares, the gardens feature over 3,000 species of plants, including rare trees such as bamboo, and are divided into themed subsections like the Andalusian, Mexican, and Bamboo Gardens. The park is renowned for its colorful fountains, historic water wheels (norias), and a large pool bordered by the ancient city ramparts and the 16th-century Saadian bastion Borj Sheikh Ahmed. After a period of neglect, it underwent significant restoration between 2006 and 2010, reopening to the public as a cherished green oasis and a venue for cultural events like the World Sacred Music Festival. The gardens blend natural beauty with historical significance, reflecting centuries of Moroccan heritage and garden design traditions inspired by Andalusia.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit during daylight hours, preferably at dusk when the gardens are especially atmospheric. The park is generally closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and discounts may be available for certain groups. Early arrival is recommended to enjoy the gardens at a leisurely pace and to attend seasonal cultural events such as the World Sacred Music Festival. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are advisable due to the garden's size and open spaces.
Interesting facts
- •The gardens contain historic norias (water wheels) that were part of the ancient irrigation system supplying water to Fez's medina.
- •The park hosts the annual World Sacred Music Festival, attracting visitors from around the world.
- •The gardens feature a rare collection of over 3,000 plant species, including exotic and rare trees like bamboo and species found only in China and India.
- •The southern part of the gardens includes a large pool overlooked by the 16th-century Saadian bastion Borj Sheikh Ahmed.
- •The garden's design and plantings reflect Andalusian garden traditions, symbolizing paradise and tranquility.
History
The gardens were created in the 19th century by Sultan Moulay Hassan I, who also constructed the walls linking Fes el-Jdid and Fes el-Bali.
Initially exclusive to the royal family, they were connected to the Royal Palace via an underground tunnel.
The gardens opened to the public in 1917, becoming the oldest public garden in Fez.
Over time, the gardens experienced neglect until a major restoration funded by King Mohammed VI and the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection took place between 2006 and 2010.
The renovation restored historic water features, fountains, pathways, and plantings, preserving the garden's Andalusian heritage and making it a vital urban green space once again.
Place Guide
Andalusian Garden19th century
A subsection of the gardens designed in the traditional Andalusian style, featuring symmetrical layouts, water features, and fragrant plants, evoking the historic gardens of southern Spain.
Norias (Water Wheels)Medieval period
Historic water wheels located at the eastern and western edges of the gardens, once part of Fez's ancient irrigation system supplying water to the medina.
Borj Sheikh Ahmed Bastion16th century
A 16th-century Saadian military bastion located on the southern edge of the gardens, overlooking the large pool and the old city ramparts.
