Historic Places in Kuwait

Thursday, February 20, 2025

The State of Kuwait celebrates its National Day and the Liberation Day on the 25th and 26th February respectively. These days are historically significant and stand as a symbol of the State of Kuwait’s absolute sovereignty and high spirit. On these prestigious occasions, it is worthwhile to know about certain key places in Kuwait that are historically important – the places that has rich heritage, history and cultural roots.

1) Kuwait Red Fort – Al-Qasr Al-Ahmar:
This fort was built during the period of Emir Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah, the 7th ruler of Kuwait in 1897 and the primary purpose was to protect the highly rich agricultural land of Al Jahra, the only Oasis of the Kuwait. The fort is square shaped and is made with strong indigenous materials. It has thirty-three rooms, 4 towers and a strong fortified wall of approximately 15 feet high around it. The tower and the firing holes in it enabled the soldiers to have a fine firing line in all directions to protect the land from enemies. There is a saline water well at the center of the fort. The fort efficiently served as a defense check point in the past. It was the location of the battle of Jahra in 1920 and thus played a key role in shaping Kuwait’s history. Currently, this historically important place is preserved as a splendid museum.

2) Al-Shaab Gate:
The Al-Shaab Gate stands as the proud symbol of Kuwait’s rich tradition and cultural heritage. Originally constructed as a part of Kuwait City’s defensive wall, it is considered as the third gate out of five gates in the old defensive wall. Dating back to the old time, when the pearl trading was the main industry in Kuwait, this gate served as the controlled entry-exit point for the traders in and out of the Kuwait City. It is located at the southern end of Kuwait’s renowned Al-Shaheed park. The breathtaking architecture is a reflection of Kuwait’s rich heritage.

3) The Nayef Palace:
The renowned Nayef palace was built in 1919 during the reign of Emir Sheikh Salem Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah. It is an architectural splendor and a seat of Kuwait’s valuable tradition and culture. It covers approximately an area of 29,000 square meters and the palace has 219 rooms. Currently, it is designated as the ‘Islamic Heritage Center’ by the Islamic World Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization. The Naif palace symbolize the country's heritage. It is unique in its design, and was a prominent seat of governmental functions. Now it is preserved as a museum to reckon the rich history of Kuwait.

4) Al-Jahra Gate:
Al-Jahra Gate, the white-stone archway, stands as a high symbolic representation of Kuwait’s deep rooted tradition. It originally served as an entry point to Kuwait from the Arabian Peninsula, and later Iraq. It traces its history to 1886 and was built by Al-Mughair Tribe as a defensive stronghold, and later rebuilt in 1931. Considering the historic relevancy of the landmark, a museum has been set-up at the premises which is a knowledge hub for the history seekers.

5) Abdulrazaq Darwaza Square:
This used to be the traditional second gate on the Kuwait wall called Al Medfa’a. In the past there was a horse stable and camel passageway at the location where water and food were sold and therefore an important trade center. Even now the gate prodigiously stands as a symbol of Kuwait’s rich past.

6) The Bayan Palace - Al-Qasr Al-Bayan:
This is the main palace of the Emir of Kuwait and is located in the Al Bayan area near Hawally. It was open in 1986 to host the fifth Arab League Conference. The palace serves as a high-level governmental representative office and a popular tourist attraction. It is an expression of Kuwait’s grand modern architecture and a symbol of the country's political life.

7) The Dasman Palace – Al-Qasr Al Dasman:
The palace at the Dasman previously hosted the members of the Royal House of Al Sabah. An architectural wonder, its significance in the Kuwait’s history is primarily through the Battle of Dasman Palace in 1990 during the Gulf War.

8) Al-Seif Palace:
Located near the Grand Mosque in Kuwait, it is a landmark that proudly declares Kuwait’s identity. The key features is the watch tower covered in blue tiles and with a roof plated in pure gold.

9) The Liberation Tower:
The 372 meter high tower serves as the telecommunication tower in the Kuwait City. It is the second tallest structure in the country. The construction commenced before 1990 Iraqi invasion, however was suspended during the invasion period. The construction was completed after the Iraqi force was expelled, and was named as ‘the Liberation Tower’ to symbolize the succusful liberation of Kuwait from Iraq.

10) The Kuwait Tower:
It is a group of three towers that were officially inaugurated in 1979 and is regarded as the landmark symbol of modern Kuwait. It was designed by Danish Architect Mr. Malene Bjorn as part of a water distribution project in Kuwait.

Sarah Mohammed
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By:

Sarah Mohammed, IIK Young Reporter

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