The square likely dates from the
Almohad period (early 13th century) when most of the surrounding fortifications were constructed by
Muhammad al-Nasir. It was originally used as military parade ground and staging area but was also used as a camping ground for caravans and as a promenade and entertainment ground in the evenings. On the south side of the square was the Kasbah Bou Jeloud, a formerly walled compound that was occupied by the authorities and by the governor of Fes from the Almohad period to the 20th century, but which today is a common neighbourhood. For a long time, the middle of the square was occupied by a large, rectangular,
Marinid-era building that served as stables and was known as the
Herri Bou Jloud. The city walls on the western side of the square, adjoining the city's main western gate,
Bab Mahrouk, were also lined with small chambers or shelters for the soldiers who kept watch at night, while the northern and eastern parts of the square were also occupied by miscellaneous structures such as warehouses and a
marabout's tomb. == Description ==