Our organizer, handler and interpreter Ebrahim took Chris and myself to the famous fort one afternoon on our day off.
The Masmak (Arabic: Qaṣr al-Maṣmak قصر المصمك) is a clay and mud-brick fort, with four watchtowers and thick walls, founded on stone blocks, lying in the center of Riyadh, in the old quarters. This building played a major part in the kingdom’s history, as it was here that the recapture of Riyadh, led by Ibn Saud, occurred on 14 January 1902. …
Today it’s a museum with signage posted in Arabic and English.
The retaking of Masmak has acquired almost mythical status in the history of Saudi Arabia.
There are times during the week when single women are not allowed in. And other times when men without families are not welcomed. By law Muslim men should have no chance at any chance encounters with females.
Ebrahim told us that wedding matches were often made by sisters and mothers of the (proposed) couple.
The Mosque square adjacent to the Fort is tranquil, an oasis in downtown Riyadh.
We enjoyed a mint tea.
Chris bought some souvenir prayer beads. Ebrahim bought a Samsung phone cheap off a dodgy guy in the parking lot. …
It will work … Insha‘Allah.
Rick McCharles 