What Is the Reason for Naming Al-Masmak Palace?

The name of Al-Masmak or Al-Masmak Palace is attributed to the thickness of its walls and side structure. The name later became "Al-Masmak" after the local dialect shifted the letter Seen (S) to Saad (S).

Located in Al-Thumairi district of Riyadh, the fortress-like palace dates back nearly 147 years. It was constructed during the reign of Imam Abdullah Bin Faisal Bin Turki Bin Abdullah Bin Mohammed Bin Saud, the third ruler of the Second Saudi State, in 1865.

The palace stands as a historic landmark recounting the story of the recapture of Riyadh in 1902 at the hands of King Abdulaziz, the founder of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Originally built as a fortress to defend the city of Riyadh, Al-Masmak has been restored and now serves as a museum open to visitors. The structure features six main sections:

The Gate: Located on the western side.

The Mosque: Situated to the north of the entrance.

The Majlis (Diwaniyah): Located directly facing the entrance.

The Well: Situated within the complex.

The Towers: Four watchtowers positioned at each corner.

The Courtyard: Surrounded by interconnected columned rooms, along with three residential units—one for the ruler's residence, a second historically used as the treasury, and a third reserved for guests.