Riffa Fort, Historic fortress in Riffa, Bahrain
Riffa Fort is a fortress built in the early 1800s with three rectangular courtyards connected by stone staircases and passageways. The structure contains residential quarters, storage areas, and defensive positions arranged across different levels.
The structure was built between 1812 and 1818 by Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, using foundations from an earlier 11th-century Hijri building. It served as both protection and residence for an influential family in the region.
The fort's layout shows how a noble family lived while maintaining strong defenses. You can observe the blend of daily living spaces with military functions throughout the structure.
The fort is open to visitors several days each week, often with guided tours available through the courtyards and chambers. Wear comfortable shoes as you will navigate stairs and passages throughout the visit.
A deep water well named Al Hanina was dug during construction and still stands on the western side of the complex. This well was crucial for water supply and reveals how natural resources influenced the fort's location.
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