Rustaq Fort restoration gains pace

Around 40 per cent of the Rustaq Fort restoration project has been completed. The completion rate of the Rustaq Fort restoration project in the South Al Batinah Governorate, which is implemented by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, has reached 40 per cent, and it comes as part of the efforts made by the Ministry to preserve the archaeological and historical monuments in the governorates and wilayats such as castles, forts and old houses.

Amjad bin Ahmed Al Makhldi, Director of the Department of Restoration and Maintenance at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, said that the restoration project of the fort will extend further for two and a half years due to the size of the building.

The restoration includes maintenance of the structural parts damaged by natural factors.

Al Makhldi added that after the restoration of the fort is completed, it will be put up for investment so that the castles, forts and historical monuments will be the focus of attention of local and foreign investors and make them a vital sector that attracts various events and activities. The ministry is currently also implementing a comprehensive restoration project in the Governorate of South Al Batinah at Nakhl Fort, which includes the complete maintenance of the external facades, in addition to fixing cracks in the interior walls and floors and replace damaged ceilings. Al Rustaq Castle is a cultural landmark and an architectural masterpiece that dates back to the sixth century AD. -- ONA

-- ONA