The crumbling ruins of Shali Fortress dominate Siwa’s main square and are one of the main reasons for a trek to this idyllic desert oasis. Built in the 12th century to protect oasis inhabitants from foreign invaders as well as mosquitoes, this mud brick citadel once housed more than 600 people in four to five story abodes. Consider the majesty of this fortress before the rains melted the salt, one of the principle materials of karsheef, and washed it away. Can you imagine what life in the Fortress of Shali was like?