Morocco & American West 1950s Black and White Prints
Bab Berdane, Meknes, Morocco, North Africa
Bab Berdane (Gateway), Meknes, French Morocco, North Africa, 1953. In 1953, the landmarks of the City of Meknes required lengthy outdoor walking to reach. Of the ramparts surrounding Meknes that are of interest to travelers, Bab Berdane, one of the massive gateways, is a particularly striking example of Alaouite architecture based on the Saadian military model. The huge gateway is embellished and softened with green ceramic decorations and Zellig Kufic inscriptions. The Alaouites have ruled Morocco since the 15th century and claim direct decendence from Mohammad. Morocco has been a French protectorate since 1912. Alaouite architecture is often characterized by white washed masonry and green trim or roofing, combined with other distinguishing Arabic elements such as the arches, columns and towers.
