Al Khor Towers
A trio of historical watchtowers that stand sentinel on Qatar’s eastern coast, in the enchanting city of Al Khor. These time-honored structures, overlooking the picturesque Al Khor Harbour, serve as a testament to the region’s rich maritime history and its enduring connection to the Ain Hleetan Well.
These watchtowers were not merely architectural marvels; they held a crucial defensive role, diligently keeping watch over incoming ships and safeguarding the Ain Hleetan Well. This well, steeped in myth and legend, was believed to possess magical properties, drawing people to its life-giving waters and sustaining the settlement of Al Khor.
As you explore the Al Khor Towers, you embark on a journey through time, tracing the footsteps of those who once stood guard over the harbor and quenched their thirst from the mystical well. Join us as we unravel the history and folklore that intertwine with these captivating towers on Qatar’s eastern shores.
Al Jumail
A charming traditional village nestled along the serene northwest coast of Qatar. This quaint settlement, once inhabited by the Al Kubaisi family, holds a special place in the hearts of local families, beckoning them back to their roots and heritage, especially during weekends.
The village unfolds as a living testament to Qatar’s history, offering visitors a glimpse into the past through a collection of important traditional buildings. Among its treasures stands a small mosque, its minaret standing tall and proud, symbolizing the enduring legacy of faith within these ancient walls.
Dating back to the early nineteenth century, Al Jumail was a thriving community until the mid-twentieth century, when its inhabitants left their mark on the sands of time. Today, this village stands as a cherished relic of Qatar’s past, a place where history, heritage, and ancestral roots converge, inviting all to explore its rich tapestry. Join us as we journey through Al Jumail’s storied streets and discover the echoes of the past.
Ar Rakiyat Fort
A historical gem nestled in the north-western region of Qatar, within the municipality of Al Shamal. This 19th-century fort, standing tall near the village of Ar Rakiyat, serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of protection and the vital role it played in safeguarding water sources.
Among the larger forts in Qatar, Ar Rakiyat Fort was meticulously constructed during the 19th century, a testament to the region’s strategic importance. Its primary purpose was to ensure the safety of the freshwater supply, a lifeline for the villagers in this arid landscape.
The presence of an active potable well with a remarkable depth of 5 kilometers near the fort attests to the abundance of water in the area, surrounded by small farms that relied on this precious resource.
Over the years, Qatar Museums has embarked on excavations and restoration efforts, preserving the legacy of Ar Rakiyat Fort. Join us as we delve into the history of this fortress and the role it played in securing vital water sources in the region.
Al Thaqab Fort
An architectural marvel nestled in the pristine landscape of the Ash Shamal area, to the north of the Qatar Peninsula. This historical treasure stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of protection and community.
Crafted from sturdy blocks of coral and limestone, meticulously joined by mud mortar, Al Thaqab Fort presents a striking silhouette against the backdrop of its village neighbor, Qal’at al Thaqab. This fort boasts three circular towers and one rectangular tower, each a guardian of its rich history.
In addition to its defensive features, Al Thaqab Fort also houses structures designed for storing and processing dates, a precious commodity in the region. At its heart lies a well, the lifeblood of the village, around which the community thrived.
