King Abdul Aziz Fort, Military castle in Duba, Saudi Arabia
King Abdul Aziz Fort is a limestone fortress in Duba featuring four three-quarter circular towers at each corner and two entrances positioned on opposite sides. The interior contains chambers arranged around a central courtyard, with a mosque occupying the northern portion.
The fort was built in 1933 during King Abdulaziz's reign, replacing a smaller Ottoman tower that had served as a police station and courthouse. This construction represented the growing administrative importance of Duba in the region.
The main entrance displays an Islamic inscription stating 'There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger' above its arched doorway.
The fort is straightforward to navigate, with rooms clearly arranged around the central courtyard. Visitors can easily explore the different chambers and view the towers and mosque.
Local craftsmen from Yanbu, Al Wajh, and Duba transported stones for construction using small sailing vessels from nearby islands. This method demonstrates how maritime transport was essential for major building projects along the coast at that time.
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