Al-Azlam Fort, Historical castle in Wadi Al Aznam, Saudi Arabia
Al-Azlam Fort is located in Wadi Al Aznam in northwestern Saudi Arabia, standing among palm trees near the main road. The structure features limestone walls, multiple rooms for accommodation, and an open central courtyard enclosed by protective fortifications.
The fort was built in the 13th century under Muhammad ibn Qalawun and was later rebuilt under Sultan Qansoh al-Ghouri. This reconstruction demonstrates how important the location remained across centuries.
The fort served as a rest station for pilgrims traveling to Mecca, welcoming travelers from across Africa and the Mediterranean region. Visitors can still sense how this location brought together people from different parts of the world.
The location is easily accessible, situated along a well-traveled route between two towns, making it a natural stopping point for travelers. The surrounding palms offer shade, and the open layout allows visitors to understand the entire structure and how it was organized.
The fort was part of a larger pilgrimage route that extended thousands of kilometers, connecting people across the entire Islamic world. Today it remains a quiet witness to these historical pathways that once linked distant communities.
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