Qasr al-Hosn, Historical fort in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Description
Qasr al-Hosn is a fortified residence in Abu Dhabi featuring a central watchtower surrounded by thick defensive walls, interior courtyards, and traditional Emirati building design. The whitewashed structures showcase the architectural style that was common in this region centuries ago.
History
The structure was built in 1761 as a watchtower to protect Abu Dhabi's only source of fresh water at the time. It gradually expanded over the decades into a larger fortification and the residence of the ruling family.
Culture
The House of Artisans displays traditional Emirati crafts made from local materials, including weaving, metalwork, and pottery. You can watch how these skills have been passed down through generations and remain part of daily creative practice.
Practical
You can explore the exhibition halls, fort chambers, and courtyards on your own or join guided tours offered throughout the day in multiple languages. The site is easily accessible and suitable for walking at your own pace, with plenty of space to move around.
Did you know?
The fort walls were built using coral stones and shells bound together with lime mortar, showcasing traditional coastal building techniques from the region. This unusual material choice reflects how earlier residents made use of what nature provided nearby.
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The United Arab Emirates feature an architectural landscape where modern structures coexist with historical remnants. In Dubai, the Burj Khalifa rises to 828 meters and is the tallest skyscraper in the world, while the artificial island of Palm Jumeirah demonstrates the country’s coastal engineering...
The United Arab Emirates feature contemporary architectural achievements and monuments that reflect their heritage. Over a few decades, the country has developed infrastructures attracting millions of visitors: glass and steel towers redefining city skylines, international museums showcasing...
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