Asfan fortress

About

Located just a short drive from both Jeddah and Mecca, the Asfan fortress is a historical castle built by the Ottomans in the 18th century. Perched atop a hill, it is designed as a square with a tower at each corner. Geographically, it's shielded by rocky hills to the left and offers expansive visibility to the right. In bygone days, it served as an Ottoman outpost, monitoring the route between Mecca and Medina. Nowadays, several walls and towers remain in relatively good condition, and worth exploring by tourists. All in all, this site is an insightful pit stop for those keen on local history. Please note that visitors should verify opening hours and entrance fees separately.