Overview
Al Masmak is the mud-and-clay fort in the middle of Riyadh where the capture of the city in 1902 began the state that exists today.
Why visit Al Masmak Palace
It was built in the 14th century of the hijri calendar under Imam Abdullah bin Faisal, as a residence and a centre of government. Four watchtowers, thick clay walls and a single studded door - the fort is small, and that is the point: this was a garrison building rather than a palace in the ornamental sense.
It is now a museum covering the founding of the state, and it sits directly in the old centre of Riyadh, so it pairs naturally with the surrounding quarter rather than needing a trip of its own.
The palace was constructed in the hijri 14th century during the reign of Imam Abdullah bin Faisal as his residence and the center of power and money. The palace is a strong fort against enemies with its solid high walls. It has only two entrances and small openings in the walls for gun bar...
Tours that include Al Masmak Palace
Riyadh, AlUla, Madinah & Jeddah
7 days, 6 nights. Riyadh, AlUla, Madinah and Jeddah, taking in Hegra, At-Turaif and the old quarter of Al-Balad.
Riyadh & AlUla
6 days, 5 nights. Two nights in Riyadh for the founding sites, three in AlUla for Hegra and Dadan.
Riyadh & Jeddah
6 days, 5 nights. Three nights in Riyadh with Diriyah and the Edge of the World, two in Jeddah.
Riyadh & Al Ahsa
6 days, 5 nights. Riyadh and Diriyah for the founding of the Saudi state, then the Al Ahsa oasis in the Eastern Province.
Riyadh & Abha
6 days, 5 nights. The Tuwaiq escarpment and Wadi Hanifa from Riyadh, then the green Asir highlands at Abha.
Riyadh, AlUla & Tabuk
8 days, 7 nights. Riyadh and the Edge of the World, three nights in AlUla, then the far north-west at Tabuk.
Travel Tips Before Visiting
- Listed as suitable for ages: All.
- The tourism authority lists it as suited to Historic site, Families, Friends.
Al Masmak Palace is in Riyadh.
Photograph: Dainomite, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Plan your visit to Al Masmak Palace
Want to include Al Masmak Palace in your trip? Browse our journeys or ask for a custom plan.
- Riyadh Shared destination context
- Edge of the World Shared destination context
- National Museum of Saudi Arabia Shared destination context
- Wadi Hanifa Shared destination context
- Abha Tourism relevance match
- Al Ahsa Tourism relevance match