Masmak Fort

The Masmak Fort, also known as the Masmak Fortress or Masmak Palace, is a historical landmark in Riyadh. The 150-year-old fortress has now been converted into a museum which displays early 20th-century photographs, artwork, and multimedia presentations. Travellers can also see a documentary that depicts the royal family regaining control of the citadel.

Masmak is an Arabic word for a tall, strong building with thick walls. True to its name, the Fort is both historically and architecturally magnificent. Other attractions include the expansive courtyard outside the fortress. Tourists can observe the city from the four 18m high watchtowers. Several freshwater wells and early 20th-century historical artworks are also present. A vibrant Saudi market is next to the museum, Souq Al Zal. It is renowned for its exquisite local handicrafts, food, clothes, gold, souvenirs, and jewellery. Initially used as a military base, the Masmak Fort was the key site for the Battle of Riyadh and has since become a symbol of the Unification of Saudi Arabia.