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A'irif Castle

An Architectural Masterpiece Embodying the Authentic Heritage of Ha’il

Hail

A'irif Castle is located in the heart of Ha’il City, representing one of its most prominent historical landmarks that reflect its cultural depth. It was constructed in the twelfth Hijri century atop a medium-height mountain to serve as a witness to the beauty of traditional architecture and the role of castles and fortresses in providing protection to cities.

A'irif Castle is one of the important surviving historical landmarks in the center of Ha’il. It stands as a living witness to the cultural depth that has characterized Ha’il throughout the ages. Its initial construction dates to the rule of Al Ali family over the region, during the twelfth Hijri century / eighteenth century AD. Subsequently, renovations and additions followed, indicating the care taken to preserve its status until it reached its current form.

The castle was constructed atop a medium-height mountain, which required its construction to be terraced according to the natural terrain, especially on the interior, where the floors feature varying elevations.

The castle is rectangular in shape, with dimensions of approximately 40x11 m. Its clay-built walls stand on stone foundations and include all the architectural military elements of castles that played a vital role in protecting cities.

Its architectural units consist of a main observation tower, a mosque, two rooms, and two open courtyards. Thus, it combines the requirements of defence, living, and worship in an architectural tableau that recounts a chapter of Hail’s legacy.