While The View from Fez reported that the Jnan Sbil gardens were officially opened by Princess Lalla Hasnae back in June last year (see the story here), it wasn't until a month ago that the gardens were opened to the public after several years of restoration. This report from Helen Ranger. Photographs by Sandy McCutcheon.
The public, both Fassis and tourists alike, are flocking these ancient gardens, situated just outside the medina to the west of Place Boujloud. They provide a welcome green lung for the city. The tranquil atmosphere is enhanced by a lake and streams, with a working waterwheel and several fountains.
Some of the plants are original, such as the grand avenue of magnificent palm trees, while other beds are newly planted with indigenous plant material.
And it's not just people enjoying the park; we spotted several butterflies and other insects, as well as colourful birds.
The Jnan Sbil gardens are open from 10h00 to 17h00 daily except Mondays.
2 comments:
These are really beautiful, Sandy. Thanks for the photos and the story.
Jnane sbil est un espace vert qui fait partie de la mémoire de la ville de Fès. Comme je l'ai dit ici :
http://bluesdefes.canalblog.com/archives/2011/01/23/20195560.html
plusieurs chansons, récits, livres, contes alimentés par la tradition orale...etc. témoignent de l'importance de ce patrimoine vert cher à la population fassie.
Malheureusement, les autorités locales ont fait de l'excès de zèle et ont tout bonnement méprisé cette mémoire populaire. Pour s'en convaincre, il suffit de voir la plaque avec le nouveau nom donné, après rénovation, à ce jardin.
Il aurait été souhaitable que l'on crée un nouveau jardin (la ville en manque terriblement, d'espace verts)et qu'on lui donne le nom qu'on veut sans toucher à l'appellation d'origine contrôlé qu'est "Jnane sbil".
Bonne fin de journée!
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