Sharjah Al-Hish Fort, also known as the Sharjah Fort, is one of the UAE's national monuments. The fortress is under state protection, it is a 2-storey traditional fortification in the city center. The building has a museum, which is open every day except Mondays and some holidays.
History of creation
The fortress was built in 1820 by Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al-Qasimi, who at that time was the ruler of Sharjah. Records from 1830 indicate that the fort was equipped with 6 cannons and separate towers, surrounded by palm trees.
In 1970, the Sharjah Al-Hish Fort was demolished. The fact is that Sheikh Khalid bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi sought to remove all traces of the previous ruler. Only one tower has survived. Restoration work began in the winter of 1996 and lasted a year, and the building was restored to its original appearance. Workers used doors and windows that were rescued from the ruins during the demolition. Peeled palm branches and mangrove trunks were used in the construction of the ceilings.
Architecture and modern usage
3 towers have been installed: al-Mukhalwasa, al-Kabs, Murabaa Mishrif. Sharjah Al-Hish Fort consists of a large number of rooms, the corridors are quite spacious. The square-shaped fort with massive walls and towers is surrounded by a small area without fences.
The museum in Sharjah Al-Hish Fort is open from 9:00 to 13:00, from 17:00 to 20:00 daily, Monday is an exception. Admission is free for children under 2 years old accompanied by adults. Inside the fortress, you can see exhibitions dedicated to the history and traditions of the region. The library of the Al-Qasimi dynasty is located on the ground floor. The upper level has a collection of weapons and jewelry. Here you can also immerse yourself in an atmosphere close to the apartments of the ruler, rooms of the nobility, rooms for recreation and reception. The eastern part of the building introduces the events of Sharjah and trade.
Unusual facts
The building of the early 19th century was used to protect against enemies. A little later, there was a prison here. As a reminder of the past, a "pillory" was erected in front of the building, where convicts were executed. The terms of imprisonment of the criminals varied, ranging from a few days to months. The dungeon was also used to store dates. In the United Arab Emirates, they are called the bread of the desert, they are a symbol of hospitality in the Middle East.
The Sharjah Al-Hish Fort looks miniature against the backdrop of high-rise buildings, because it has 2 floors. When the Festival of Light takes place, the walls of the building turn into a large screen on which movies and cartoons with drawings to oriental music are shown using a projector. On holidays: Sharjah Heritage Days, International Museum Day on May 18, Martyrs' Day on December 1, UAE National Day on December 2, admission is free. The museum is closed on religious holidays according to the Islamic calendar.
How to get
Sharjah Al-Hish Fort is located in the city center, near the Gold Market and the promenade. Buses 12, 14, 15, 88 pass by the historical building. You can also rent a car or order a taxi.
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