Located in Qusiba, north of the Qassim region, Al-Mashqooq Palace is one of the most prominent heritage landmarks representing the beauty of traditional Najdi architecture and the authenticity of rural life in the 19th century. Built around 1250 AH (1834 AD), the palace was constructed using mud, stone, and palm trunks, combining durability with aesthetic craftsmanship.
Surrounded by two large palm orchards with over 2,000 trees, the palace offers a scenic and tranquil atmosphere. Inside, it contains four main majlis (guest halls):
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Qahwat Al-Khattar (Travelers’ Café): Located outside the palace walls, it was designated for hosting travelers passing through the area.
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Qahwat Al-Sheikh: Situated on the upper floor, it served as the reception area for dignitaries and important guests.
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Qahwat Al-Nisa (Women’s Hall): A private section within the palace used for gatherings and receiving female visitors.
In addition, the palace includes an internal mosque, three date-storage rooms, multiple kitchens, and fifteen bedrooms spread across the two floors. There’s also a grain-milling room equipped with four traditional grinding stones, which still stand as symbols of the region’s domestic heritage.
Defensive walls and small corner towers surround the palace, emphasizing the security-oriented design of traditional Najdi fortresses. Today, Al-Mashqooq Palace stands as a significant cultural site in Qassim, drawing historians, architects, and visitors eager to explore Saudi Arabia’s architectural heritage.
With Wadi Trip, you can visit Al-Mashqooq Palace as part of our Qassim Heritage Tours, where you’ll experience authentic Najdi design and learn about the daily life of early Saudi communities. Book your tour today and step into a timeless story of tradition, hospitality, and architectural mastery.
