Al-Masmak Palace, a fortress-like structure, is located in al-Thumairi neighborhood of Riyadh City. Its construction dates back approximately 147 years. It was built during the reign of Imam Abdullah Bin Faisal Bin Turki Bin Abdullah Bin Mohammed Bin Saud, the third Imam of the Second Saudi State, in 1865. Al-Masmak Palace derives its name from the thickness of its walls and side walls. In Arabic, the letter Šin in the name was replaced by the letter ṣād (noting that the word 'al-Masmak' with a Šin means a thick and fortified building).
The palace is an archaeological landmark that tells the saga of the capture of Riyadh on January 15, 1902, by King Abdulaziz, the founder of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Al-Masmak Palace was originally built as a fortress protecting the city of Riyadh. Nowadays, it serves as a museum for visitors after its restoration. The palace comprises six main sections: The gate on the western side, the mosque to the north of the entrance, the Majlis or Diwaniyah (council chamber) at the facade, the well, four towers at every corner of the palace, and a courtyard surrounded by rooms with columns connected to each other. Al-Masmak Palace also encompasses three residential units. The first served as the ruler’s residence, the second was used in the past as Bayt al-Mal (House of Money), and the third was dedicated to guests.
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