[1] That gate was named after a Zenata emir, 'Ajisa Ibn Dunas [ar] (عجيسة بن دوناس), who dominated the early city of al-'Aliya (on the Qarawiyyin quarter of Fes), in rivalry with his brother, el-Fetouh, who dominated the city of Madinat Fas (now the Andalous quarter) on the opposite shore of the river and who probably gave his name to another gate, Bab Ftouh.

[2][1] The two brothers were in power between 1059 and 1061 and both were likely responsible for building these gates, meaning Bab Guissa must have been built during these years.

[2] The original monumental gate, still standing, has a bent entrance; its internal passage turns 90 degrees as it enters the city.

[2] The area of Bab Guissa was historically known for a bird market as well as for the public performances of popular storytellers.

[2] Just inside the gate is the Bab Guissa Mosque and its adjoining madrasa, one of the important historic religious institutions of the city.