Riyadh Historic Sites

Masmak Citadel is a marvellous fort which was built in the nineteenth century by Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Rasheed. This fort was the home of the ruling Al Saud clan before it was taken over by the Al Rashid family. The fort was again recaptured by Amir Adb al-Aziz ibn Adb al-Rahman of the Al Saud clan and the heroic deeds of the ruler are an important part of the history of Masmak Citadel.

The fort is made of mud bricks and clay and the roofs and walls are covered with palm tree leaves and wood. There are 4 watchtowers whose openings where used by soldiers to fire at the attackers. The palm gate at the entrance is about three and a half meters high and two and a half meters wide with a small opening called a Al Kokha which allows entry to and from the fort. In 1995 the fort was renovated and a museum, which exhibits weaponry and artefacts of former periods, was included.