Al Zubara Fort: A Coastal Guardian and Historical Echo

Al Zubara Fort, located on the northwestern coast of Qatar, is more than just a fort; it's a journey through time. Built in 1938 under the guidance of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani, it initially served as a coast guard station, protecting Qatar's shores. The fort replaced the dilapidated Qalat Murair and the abandoned town of Al Zubarah. The fort's architecture reflects traditional Arab and Gulf fortification styles, featuring a square courtyard surrounded by imposing walls. Three of the fort's corners boast round towers with Qatari-style battlements, while the fourth has a rectangular tower with machicolations. These design elements provided defense and helped keep the interior cool during the harsh summers. The walls are 1 meter thick, constructed from coral rock and limestone, using mud as mortar and coated in gypsum plaster. Today, Al Zubara Fort functions as a museum, displaying a diverse collection of exhibits and artworks, with a focus on archaeological findings. The exhibits offer insights into the history of Al Zubara, once a thriving pearl fishing and trading port. The fort is part of the Al Zubarah Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013, recognized as one of the best-preserved examples of an 18th and 19th-century merchant town in the Gulf region. Visitors can explore the fort and the surrounding archaeological site, including the remains of the ancient town.