Saudi Gazette report

ABHA — Al-Daqal Castle, one of Abha’s most prominent archaeological landmarks, has regained its place in the cultural spotlight following a restoration project by the Heritage Commission of the Ministry of Culture.

The project reinforces the historical significance and architectural authenticity of the castle, positioning it as a key cultural destination in the Asir region.

Located in the northwestern part of Abha, the castle sits atop a mountain at approximately 2,342 meters above sea level, giving it a strategic vantage point to oversee routes through the surrounding mountain ranges.

Researchers, including Dr. Ghaithan Grace of King Khalid University, estimate the fortress was built over 110 years ago in 1334 AH (circa 1916 CE).

The rescue and consolidation efforts included rebuilding the damaged sections of the castle with original local stone, preserving its traditional design. Interior corridors and chambers were cleaned and prepared to receive visitors interested in the region’s rich heritage.

In his academic study The Fortifications of the City of Abha (2006), Dr. Mahfouz Al-Zahrani noted that the name “Al-Daqal” is derived from a classical Arabic word referring to elevation. It also alludes to the central mast of a sailboat, symbolizing the castle’s commanding height.

Built on a rugged rocky foundation, the castle adapted traditional architecture to its terrain, taking on a rectangular layout measuring 43.6 meters in length and 16 meters in width, with a semi-circular northern façade.

The natural rock slopes on the northern and western sides were incorporated to strengthen the defensive fortifications.

The structure comprises three main units: the command center, soldiers’ housing, and a service section.

A central vestibule divides the castle into eastern and western wings. Among its features is a large stone oven used by stationed forces to bake bread, with an opening two meters wide and a chimney rising 110 cm.

The castle also includes a sealed grain storage chamber, designed with stone insulation to protect against moisture and pests, as well as a dedicated space for preparing haneeth, a traditional dish emblematic of the Asir region’s culinary culture.

Local craftsmen constructed the castle using granite, known for its erosion resistance, and juniper wood for roofing, supplemented with clay, reeds (shohat), and Red Sea-imported plaster. Aesthetic and waterproof plaster layers were added to the exterior walls.

The roofing technique involved placing juniper beams in parallel, covering them with reeds and a compacted mix of mud and straw, ensuring effective insulation against rainfall.

The site is expected to open to the public in the upcoming phase of development, further enriching Abha’s cultural landscape and promoting awareness of the Asir region’s archaeological heritage.