Al Baleed Citadel, West Gate and Grand Mosque

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The imposing mound, now cleared of debris, is a citadel/husn that was excavated between 1997-2007. Rising over 13 meters high, it's visible from the south side where semi-detached corner bastions and the southern gate stand out in the center. The towers and gate are part of the city's latest phase, dating back to 1500 AD, featuring a unique bent-axis configuration that leads internally to a massive staircase. Excavations within the citadel have uncovered a central courtyard surrounded by a series of rooms. Originally standing at over four stories high, this structure served as both the Sultan's home and ruling center. Clearly visible on the southern side are massive blocks from the earliest city, dating back around 950 AD. Beneath the husn lies an earlier Iron Age settlement.