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Za'abal Castle

The Historical Guardian of Sakaka and Witness to its Successive Eras

Al-Jawf

Za'abal Castle perches atop a high mountain north of Sakaka. Its strategic location made it a centre for observation and city protection throughout the ages. Built of sandstone and mudbrick, it is considered one of Sakaka’s most significant historical landmarks, with roots dating back to ancient times.

Za'abal Castle is located north of Sakaka, built on a mountain overlooking the city and detached from the mountain range surrounding Sakaka to the north and west. The mountain peak rises about 50 meters above the city level, which enhanced the castle’s vital observation that contributed to protecting Sakaka through various eras.

The castle was constructed from local sandstone and mudbrick. It measures 50 meters in length and between 17 to 20 meters in width. It consists of a courtyard surrounded by a wall supported by four circular towers at the corners. In the middle of the northern part of the courtyard sits an observation room atop a rocky elevation.

The castle’s entrance is situated on the southern facade, with a rectangular room positioned to its left, adjacent to the southern wall. This room, along with the one in the northern part of the courtyard, was likely used as living quarters for the castle guards.

Opinions vary regarding the history of Za'abal Castle. Some suggest it dates back 120 years, while others attribute the existing structures to the early Islamic era. However, archaeological evidence confirms that it was built as part of the ancient city of Sakaka, dating back to centuries preceding the Islamic era.