Barzan Towers

Barzan Towers, also known as the Umm Salal Mohammed Fort Towers, are watchtowers that were built in the late 19th century and renovated in 1910 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Jassim Al Thani. They are located at the southern side of the defensive system established at the end of the 19th century and the start of the 20th century to protect the 'Rawat', a valley where precious rainwater is collected when it flows down from the higher ground. In Arabic "Barzan" means "high place".

The buildings were restored in 2003. The towers measure 16 meters (52.49 ft) high. The fort links to two other fortified buildings towards the west and another tower towards the north. Barzan Towers may have been built near the sea to keep an observant eye on pearl divers, as a lookout for approaching ships, and as an observatory for keeping track of the moon. The Barzan Towers have been rebuilt with features such as air-conditioners.

Built in the traditional Qatari design from coral rock and limestone between 1910- 16, this imposing 16-meter high watchtower was a lookout for approaching ships, particularly those of incoming Ottoman troops in the early 1900s. It is believed to have also been used to protect water supplies and as an observatory to track the moon and determine the dates of the lunar calendar. Unlike other forts in Qatar, the Barzan Towers were built over several floors, giving it the name Barzan, which means High Place in Arabic.