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Africa
 
Egypt
 
Fortress of Shali

Fortress of Shali, Siwa Oasis

 
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?
Shali, Siwa Oasis

Shali, Siwa Oasis

Alfredo De Simone

Shali, Siwa Oasis

Shali, Siwa Oasis

Alfredo De Simone

Shali, Siwa Oasis

Shali, Siwa Oasis

Alfredo De Simone

Siwa Oasis, Egypt

Siwa Oasis, Egypt

Alfredo De Simone

 
Getting There
 
The main entrance to the Fortress of Shali is just off Siwa's main square and is easily reached by foot, bike or careta (donkey cart) from anywhere within the town.
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Map of Siwa Oasis
Siwa Oasis
Things to Keep in Mind
 
Take care when touring this crumbling citadel it is riddled with holes and there are no guardrails.

More Family Attractions in Siwa Oasis

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Points of Interest Nearby

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