Qishlah, Military fortress in Hail, Saudi Arabia
Qishlah is a rectangular mud fortress in Hail with a sturdy outer wall, eight watchtowers, and two main gates on the east and west sides. The building spans two floors with roughly 136 rooms, a central courtyard for gatherings, and a mosque with columns inside.
The fortress was built in 1941 under King Abdulaziz and initially served as a military storage depot and barracks for troops stationed in Hail. It marked an important step in the modernization of local defense structures during that period.
The building displays Najdi architectural style with geometric patterns and traditional construction methods using clay, mudbrick, and stone materials common in the region. These materials and techniques connect the site to local building practices that remain visible in its appearance today.
Plan time to explore the various rooms and large courtyard, as the grounds are extensive. The main gates are clearly visible and serve as good reference points for orienting yourself while walking through.
The name comes from the Turkish word 'Kışla' meaning barracks, reflecting influences that shaped military architecture across the Arabian Peninsula. This linguistic connection points to long-standing exchange and interaction in the region.
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