The Fortress
The Fortress
Perched at the highest point in the area, blending seamlessly with the landscape, lies the ancient mud-brick fortress, or ‘qasr’, from which the village draws its name. This structure, though not commonly referred to in its entirety in daily conversation, stands as a silent guardian of history, its walls echoing tales of a bygone era.
A Bastion of Safety
In the early decades of the twentieth century, this fortress was the heart of the community’s defense system. When the threat of marauders loomed, the people of Farafra would seek refuge within its sturdy walls. Each family in the village had a designated room within the fortress, a private haven that, in times of peace, doubled as a storage space for provisions. A watchman vigilantly guarded these supplies, ensuring their safety and integrity.
The Ravages of Time and Nature
However, the unyielding march of time and the forces of nature have not spared this historic stronghold. In the 1950s, heavy rainfall inflicted significant damage on the structure, causing parts of the fortress to crumble and decay. Despite this, the fortress has not been entirely lost to the ravages of time. Some sections, having withstood the environmental onslaught better than others, have been repurposed as homes for several families, continuing the fortress’s legacy as a protector and provider.
Created On March 25, 2020
Updated On January 28, 2024
