Shali Fortress
شالي
A 13th-century Berber fortress built from salt-and-mud bricks. Its tiered ruins are the landmark of Siwa and a sunset viewpoint.
Shali Fortress was built in the 13th century. The Siwans mixed salt blocks from the local salt lake with mud to make a building material called kershef, creating a defensive hilltop town. In 1926, three days of heavy rain caused much of the old town to collapse, and residents gradually moved out. Parts have been restored in recent years. Paths lead to the top, where you can look out over the oasis, date palm groves and the distant salt lake. It is most beautiful at sunset. Entry is free. It sits beside the central square of the town, surrounded by a market and restaurants.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Traditional Siwan House Museum
- Gebel al-Mawta (Mountain of the Dead)
- Temple of the Oracle of Amun
- Temple of Umm Ubayda
- Cleopatra's Spring
- Gebel Dakrour
- Fatnas Island
- Siwa Salt Pools