Shibam Fort Tourism

Shibam Fort is an iconic edifice in Shibam, a city often known as 'the Manhattan of the desert' in Yemen. The fort is one of the town's most prominent historical landmarks. Shibam, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famed for its unique architecture comprising numerous mud-brick-made high-rise buildings, some reaching over 30 meters (98 ft) high, which is an outstanding example of early urban planning designed to protect residents from Bedouin attacks. Shibam Fort, strategically located at an elevated point, is thought to date back to the 16th century, although the foundations could be older. The fort served as a defensive stronghold and a residential palace for the local Sultan's family. It provides visitors with insights into the region's historical military architecture and gives panoramic views of the city and its surrounding landscape. Over the years, Shibam and its fort have faced threats from both natural disasters and human conflicts, leading to ongoing preservation efforts to maintain this heritage for future generations.