Yanqul Fort is an attraction for tourists

YANQUL: Gardens filled with trees and a palm oasis at the centre of Yanqul Fort are big attractions for tourists.

Surrounded by orchards on all sides, the towers and houses of the fort or the lofty Bait Al Marah reflect chapters of history and civilisation. Al Bait Al Oud, Al Bait Al Sharqi, Bait Al Marah and Bait Al Basrah are essential facilities of the fort that have inspired many life stories.

The fort is bordered on the south and north by an oasis of palm trees. It is flanked on the west by an old market, which is an ancient art and architecture masterpiece, full of life and a favoured destination for people coming from far and wide.

Hilal bin Said Al-Qatabi from the Tourism Department in the Governorate of A’Dhahirah said that the fort was built during the era of al-Nabahnah, near the ruins of an old fort from the 11th century. It was the last ruling centre of that era and was successively used by eight rulers during past historical periods.

He added that the fort consists of several facilities and buildings. Among them is the morning gate, which is the only entrance to the fort. It is the reception gate, whereby guests enter the fort. The fort also consists of several towers located at the front and which were used for the forward defence of the fort at the time. The fort consists of five houses. They is Al Bait Al Oud, the headquarters of the Sheikh, his entourage and company.

It has its own independent entrance, and also contains several rooms surrounding a tall building with three floors. Al Bait Al Sharqi is adjacent to Al Bait Al Oud,