Shali Fortress: Siwa's Ancient Heart

Discover the ancient ruins of Shali Fortress in Siwa Oasis, a testament to Berber ingenuity and a window into Egypt's Western Desert history.

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Siwa Oasis
Shali Fortress

Explore the ruins of Shali Fortress, a centuries-old mud-brick citadel in Siwa Oasis. Wander through its crumbling maze of alleyways and climb to the top for panoramic views of the oasis, experiencing a tangible link to Siwa's Berber past.

A brief summary to Shali Fortress

Shali Fortress، شارع المركز الحطاري سيوه الغربيين, Number 2, Siwa, Marsa Matrouh Governorate, 5011323, EG
+201032635156

Local tips

Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the uneven terrain within the fortress.
Visit during the late afternoon for magical sunset views over the Siwa Oasis.
Explore the narrow alleyways to discover hidden corners and get a feel for the traditional Siwan way of life.

Getting There

Walking

Shali Fortress is located in the heart of Siwa, opposite El Souq Square. From the square, walk behind the tuk-tuk and taxi stand. Look for a narrow alley to the right of Albabenshal Hotel. Pass through the small bazaar selling local goods. A set of steps to the left marks the entrance to Shali Fortress. Entrance is free.
Tuk-tuk

From anywhere in Siwa town, a tuk-tuk to Shali Fortress is readily available. Most drivers will know the location. The ride is short and will drop you off near El Souq Square, from where you can walk to the entrance. Expect to pay around 10-15 EGP for the ride.

Discover more about Shali Fortress

Shali Fortress, located in the heart of Siwa Oasis, is a striking reminder of the region's rich history and the ingenuity of its people. Construction of the fortress began in the 12th century by the Berber inhabitants of Siwa, who sought a secure refuge from invaders and harsh desert conditions. The name “Shali” translates to “city” in the local Berber language. The fortress was built using kershef, a unique material consisting of clay, salt, and palm fronds. This blend provided excellent insulation, keeping the interior cool during the scorching days and warm on chilly desert nights. The fortress was once a thriving community, housing hundreds of Siwi Berbers within its four- to five-story structures. It included residential areas, a mosque (the oldest building in the Shali, erected in 1203), and communal spaces. In 1926, heavy rains caused significant damage to the kershef buildings, leading to the fortress's gradual abandonment. Today, visitors can explore the labyrinthine passageways and climb to the highest points for panoramic views of the oasis. The ruins offer a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into the past and a testament to the resilience of the Siwan people. Restoration efforts began in 2018 to preserve the heritage of Siwa using traditional building techniques and local materials.

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