Qasr al-Hosn

The Qasr al-Hosn (Arabic: قصر الحصن‎) is the oldest stone building in the city of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.

Location

It is located along Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum St and is a part of the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation.

History

Qasr al-Hosn, also known as the White Fort (originally not white in colour but painted bright white during 1976–1983 renovations) or Old Fort, was constructed in 1761 as a conical watchtower to defend the only freshwater well in Abu Dhabi island. The tower was later expanded into a small fort in 1793 by the then ruler, Shakhbut bin Dhiyab Al Nahyan, and became the permanent residence of the ruling Sheikh. The tower took its present shape after a major extension in the late 1930s, aided by revenues received for granting the first oil license in Abu Dhabi. It remained the emir's palace (hence the name Qasr al-Hosn, meaning Palace fort) and seat of government until 1966. The fort has been developed several times and is now partially open to the public.

Current use

The Qasr al-Hosn is original heart of downtown Abu Dhabi currently transformed into a year-round destination for cultural discovery and represent extensive historical, archaeological, and architectural research. Explore the historic Qasr al Hosn, witness to the layers of the city's history and the men and woman who lived in the ruling family place. Enjoy multi-disciplinary performances at Cultural Foundation, the home of Abu Dhabi's culture. Visit the National Consultative Council , a powerful symbol of the federation and unity of the UAE. Discover the intangible heritage of the UAE though a tour in the House of Artisans. The fort houses a museum displaying artifacts and pictures representing the history of the country. It also has a range of weapons, used through the region's history, on display. Also you can engage and learn how Emirati artisans use palm materials to fashion baskets, fans and mats. Admire the techniques of Talli, Al Sadu techniques. Find out about training courses, educational workshops, and public events that bring the UAE's traditional crafts to life...