Al-Ukhaidir Fortress

This article is about the medieval fortress in Iraq. For the Ottoman fort in Saudi Arabia, see al-Ukhaydir, Tabuk Province.
Al-Ukhaidir Fortress near Karbala in Iraq
Al-Ukhaidir Fortress/Palace

The Fortress of Al-Ukhaidir or Abbasid palace of Ukhaider is located roughly 50 km south of Karbala, Iraq. It is a large, rectangular fortress erected in 775 AD with a unique defensive style. Constructed by the Abbasid caliph As-Saffah's nephew Isa ibn Musa,[1] Ukhaidir represents Abbasid architectural innovation in the structures of its courtyards, residences and mosque. Excavations at Ukhaidir were conducted in the early 20th century by Gertrude Bell. Ukhaidir was an important stop on regional trade routes, similar to Atshan and Mujdah.[2] The complex comprises a primary hall, a large Iwan, a reception hall and servants quarters.[2] The fortress exemplifies Abbasid architecture in Iraq by demonstrating the "despotic and the pleasure-loving character of the dynasty" in its grand size but cramped living quarters.[3]

The fortress could be built and named after Ukaidar ibn Abdulmalik al-Kindi who was a ruler of Kindah tribe.

World Heritage Status

This site was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List on July 7, 2000 in the Cultural category.[2]

Notes

  1. ↑ http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2015/12/iraq-karbala-ukhaidir-palace-neglect-history.html
  2. 1 2 3 The Fortress of Al-Ukhaidar - UNESCO World Heritage Centre
  3. ↑ Hillenbrand (1999).

References

Coordinates: 32°26′26″N 43°36′08″E / 32.44056°N 43.60222°E / 32.44056; 43.60222

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