Al Hosn Palace in Abu Dhabi
Al Hosn Palace, commonly called the White Fort or Old Fort, stands proudly as the oldest property in Abu Dhabi.
Location
The palace is located on the Sheikh Zayed Road of Abu Dhabi which is the first street in the city.
History
The palace was built in 1793 and was the residence of the rulers of Abu Dhabi at that time. The structure started to become a rounded watch tower to defend the only freshwater well in Abu Dhabi in 1761. The tower was expanded further and developed into a fort in 1793 and consequently became the residence for the ruling Sheikh. It continued as a royal palace and a chair of the government until 1966. In 2007, it finally opened for public.
Architecture
The interior décor of the palace has been modernized. Al Hosn is known for its gorgeous architecture. The designing though the tile work and at the main gate and the courtyard is immensely fabulous. A huge number of travelers from all over the world have been attracted by the importance and magnificence of the fort.
Al Hosn Today
One of the best spots to review history, Al Hosn is presently used as the Documentation and Research Center by the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation. The collection presented by the center comprises of several awestruck credentials on the heritage and history of the Gulf region. The exhibitions which are organized time to time present historical pictures and traditional relics. The weapons used in the evolution of Abu Dhbai are also depicted by the tower.
Al Hosn Palace is surely a must visit tourist destination for people who are travelling to Abu Dhabi. The palace is open from Saturdays to Thursdays. One can visit the prestigious palace from 7:30 am to 1:30 pm. The palace is closed on Fridays. Admission to the palace is free.
