The Shamsan Historical Fortress is one of the most prominent archaeological landmarks in Abha, standing at the base of a medium-height mountain. The fortress extends approximately 90 meters in length and 50 meters in width, offering a commanding view over the city’s scenic landscape.
Built with exceptional craftsmanship, the fortress features three defensive towers positioned at its corners — unlike most traditional forts that have four. Each tower displays a distinct architectural style, reflecting the diversity of construction methods used throughout different eras. Excavations inside the site uncovered stone and flint tools dating back to the third millennium BC, providing evidence of early human settlement and craftsmanship in the region.
The fortress walls, made of stone slabs, have withstood the test of time, preserving much of their original structure. Over the centuries, the juniper tree trunks that once supported the roofs were removed by local residents for use in their own homes, leaving only one chamber with part of its ancient roof still intact. The remaining roofs were originally constructed from juniper timber sourced from the Asir Mountains, each trunk measuring up to 7 meters in length.
Today, the Shamasan Fort stands as a remarkable historical symbol of Abha — a site that combines heritage, architecture, and culture. It attracts visitors eager to explore the city’s ancient roots and its evolution over thousands of years.
With Wadi Trip, you can explore the Shamasan Fort as part of our Abha heritage tours, where history, architecture, and mountain beauty come together in one unforgettable experience.
