Sfax's Quirky Gate: Bab Diwan, A.K.A. Bab Bhar - The Ocean-Facing Entrance

Tucked between Bab Kasbah on the west and Bab Borj Ennar on the east, Sfax's Bab Diwan, or Bab Bhar, is one of Medina's entryways draped in a history charmed with peculiarity. Named after the custom officers' administration during the Hafsid era, it was originally called Bab Bhar because of its position. As time passed and the threats increased, it flaunted a defensive system during the 17th century, a design that made it tricky for invaders. Unlucky visitors had to weave through a labyrinthine alley within the city walls for around 30 meters before reaching the city core – the city-dwellers benefited from this design while staying one step ahead of the enemy.

As Sfax continued to grow, French Minister Delcassé ingeniously added a new entrance, known as 'porte Delcassé' or 'porte de France', which simplified access to the city. Today, Bab Diwan boasts a cobblestone path with curbs between the two gates, both lower than the road outside – a construction that put the wrecking ball to a section of the wall rebuilt after World War II collateral damages.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons