Barzan Tower, Watchtower in Umm Salal Mohammed, Qatar.
The Barzan Tower reaches a height of 16 meters and features thick stone walls constructed from coral rock and limestone bonded with mud mortar.
Between 1910 and 1916, the tower functioned as a strategic observation point for monitoring approaching ships and potential Ottoman military movements along the coast.
The word Barzan means 'high place' in Arabic, reflecting the tower's role in monitoring lunar phases for determining important dates in the Islamic calendar.
The tower opens to visitors on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 9:00 to 17:00, and Fridays from 12:30 to 17:00, with no entrance fee.
The tower's walls measure one meter in thickness and incorporate wooden channels called marazims that direct rainwater away from the structure.
Location: Umm Salal Mohammed
Height: 16 m
GPS coordinates: 25.41802,51.41309
Latest update: March 4, 2025 09:57
Qatar provides photographers with diverse subjects that combine modern architecture, historical sites, and natural landscapes. In Doha, many opportunities center on contemporary structures such as the Museum of Islamic Art and Qatar National Library, alongside traditional locations including Souq Waqif and Msheireb Heritage Quarter. The Corniche Promenade along the bay offers views of the skyline, while Aspire Park presents green spaces and recreational areas. Cultural centers like Katara Cultural Village and the Islamic Cultural Center complement the urban offerings. Beyond the capital, historical fortifications such as Al Zubarah Fort and Barzan Towers stand alongside natural formations at Zekreet Peninsula and Al Thakhira Mangroves. The Inland Sea on the border with Saudi Arabia displays dune landscapes that extend to the water. Rock carvings at Al Jassasiya document prehistoric settlement, while Film City provides abandoned sets for photography. These locations suit different photographic styles and offer insights into the country's culture and nature.
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