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The
Al Hisn Fort
(Sharjah
Fort) is located in the heart of old Sharjah. Originally constructed in
1820, the fort was virtually demolished in 1969. It was rebuilt and restored
to the old splendor in 1996/97.
The fort,
now a museum, was once the residence of many former rulers and also the
headquarters of the government. Sheikh Sultan Bin Saqr Al Qassimi, 'The
First', was responsible for the creation of the fort 175 years ago. The
fort played an important role in the development of the Emirate's social,
commercial, political and military activities.
The restoration
of the fort has been a major project undertaken by H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan
bin Mohammed Al Qassimi. All that remained of the fort were two perimeter
walls and a 12 -meter tower. With old photographs, documents and local
knowledge provided by the elderly residents, the Directorate of Heritage
set about the reconstruction of the fort in April, 1996.
The fort
has a terrace and three towers - Al Muhalwasa, Al Kabs and Murabaa Mishriff,
which are joined by rooms and halls, surrounding a large central courtyard.
Enter through the original fort doors into a world of local history and
charm.
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