Shali, 13th-century fortification in Siwa Oasis, Egypt
The Shali fortress rises from the desert landscape, constructed entirely of kershef, a mixture of salt and mud that hardens into solid blocks.
Built in 1203 to protect Siwa inhabitants from nomadic raiders, the fortress served as a residential complex for nearly seven centuries until 1926.
The elevated mosque within Shali fortress displays traditional Berber architectural elements, with walls bearing original builder handprints in the kershef material.
Visitors require permits to enter the archaeological site, and morning hours provide better lighting conditions for exploring the narrow pathways within the fortress.
The fortress walls contain high concentrations of salt, causing them to naturally strengthen when dry but become vulnerable during heavy rains.
Location: Matruh Governorate
GPS coordinates: 29.20132,25.51923
Latest update: March 3, 2025 08:39
Egypt holds numerous archaeological sites beyond the pyramids of Giza. From the bent pyramid of Dahshur to the rock temples of Speos Artemidos, these locations present Egyptian architecture through different periods. The collection includes desert fortresses, Roman quarries, prehistoric caves, and religious complexes across various regions from Alexandria to Aswan.
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