Tarout Fort - Eastern Province

Tarout Fort is a small historic castle located in the center of an island in Al Qatif, Saudi Arabia. The base of the castle dates back to 5000 BC. The island on which the Fort is located (Tarout Island) has a number of other historical sites as well.

History 

The castle was originally dedicated to the worship of the Mesopotamian goddesses. Some historians believe that the Fort was built in the 16th century during the Portuguese invasion of the Persian Gulf, where it served as their defense point. Later, once the Portuguese left, the castle was left in ruins. Many inscriptions have also been found in the castle, along with the Mesopotamian statues. 

Structure and Landscape

The Fort is located on a hill which is the highest point on the island. It had four conical-shaped towers; however, one of them was destroyed during a battle. The Fortification is surrounded by a wide wall that is made of gypsum, sea mud, and Fourosh rocks. The Fort is surrounded by palm trees, old preserved houses, and narrow streets. There is also a spring beside the castle named "Ayyin Aloudda" (the old spring), which was the main source of water for the people on the Island. At night, the structure is illuminated by the lights that have been installed around it.

Some diners are also located nearby on the island. The Tarout Fort opens in the evening for tourists, who can then freely roam around the castle and take pictures.