Ancient Palaces of the Region: A Journey Through Time and Architecture
By Islam Salah
The MENA region is home to some of the most fascinating and well-preserved castles around the globe. These structures, built centuries ago, were homes for royalty, strategic strongholds, and symbols of power.
Many are open to visitors today, offering a chance to step back in time and explore their incredible architecture and history. From the towering forts of North Africa to the ancient citadels of the Levant, each castle tells its own story of the past. Let’s look at a few of these historical gems.
Qasr al-Harrana, Jordan
Qasr al-Harrana in eastern Jordan, about 60 km from Amman, is a well-preserved Umayyad-era desert castle built around 710 CE. There’s some debate about the true purpose of the structure, though most people believe it most likely served as a meeting place for Bedouin leaders.
The nearly square structure has 60 rooms arranged around a central courtyard, with influences from Syrian, Sassanian, and Byzantine architectural styles. The castle, which overlooks the Wadi al-Kharana, is a popular tourist site, offering visitors a chance to see early Islamic architecture and desert life.
Aleppo Citadel, Syria
The Aleppo Citadel is a massive fortress perched on a hill in the heart of Syria’s ancient city. Its origins date back to the 3rd millennium BCE, though much of the structure as we see it today was built by the Ayyubid dynasty in the 12th century.
The Citadel’s strategic location made it a key military stronghold throughout history, and its architecture is a blend of Islamic and medieval styles, with thick walls, a large moat, and imposing gates.
El Badi Palace, Morocco
El Badi Palace in Marrakesh, Morocco, was commissioned by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty in 1578 and completed in 1593. Known as the “Incomparable Palace,” it was a symbol of the Sultan’s wealth and power, featuring imported materials from countries like Italy and Mali.
El Badi was once a grand palace adorned with lush gardens and pavilions, but it deteriorated after al-Mansur’s death in 1603. Then, it was dismantled by Moulay Ismail in the 17th century.
However, what remains of the structure is still a popular tourist attraction showcasing historical exhibits, including the Minbar of the Kutubiyya Mosque.
Citadel of Cairo, Egypt
The Cairo Citadel is a massive Islamic fortification that’s been standing tall since the 12th century. It was designed to protect Cairo from Crusader invasions and features a blend of Islamic and Mamluk architecture, with its soaring minarets and grand towers.
The Citadel also houses several significant structures, including the Mosque of Muhammad Ali and the Egyptian Military Museum.
Tarout Castle, Saudi Arabia
Originally part of the ancient Dilum Kingdom, Tarout Castle has undergone several reconstructions over the centuries, reflecting its rich history. There’s some evidence that even suggests that it was once a Phoenician temple dedicated to the goddess Astarte.
The current structure, built in the 16th century, is believed to have served as a fortress, protecting against Portuguese or Turkish threats. Although only three towers remain, the castle continues to stand strong.
The Ancient Palaces and Castles of MENA
These ancient palaces across the MENA region showcase the rich cultural heritage and architectural brilliance of their time. From Egypt to Morocco, each palace tells its own story, preserving the legacy of bygone eras.
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