Qasr Al Hosn......
Whilst living and working in Dubai, a vibrant and fast paced city and regional hub, when we want to get away from it all, we strangely find ourselves gravitating more towards the federal capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi.
As Abu Dhabi has developed its cultural district, located on Sadiyat Island and more particularly completed the wonderful Louvre Museum, we like to visit Abu Dhabi to be pampered in one of their excellent hotels whilst also taking some time out for a "cultural" break.
Our last visit provided an absolute gem, the Qasr Al Hosn. Although only just re-opened after extensive renovation, we took an opportunity for a fleeting visit and now can't wait to return for a more extensive viewing.
The Qasr (Fort) is the oldest structure in Abu Dhabi. It was built around the 1790's in order to to protect the then growing settlement of Abu Dhabi as well as Abu Dhabi's only fresh water well.
The Fort comprises two buildings, the inner structure, constructed in 1795 and the outer palace, constructed between 1939-1945. Over the centuries it has been home to the ruling Al Nahyan family, the seat of government, a consultative council and a national archive.
Our visit was far too short but it did allow me an opportunity to give a workout to my Fuji Xpro2 and my new Fujichron, the 35mm F2. There is something about the architecture and lighting that just lends itself to photography.
I hope this short Blog and corresponding images will give you a flavour for this wonderful national monument and I will write a more extensive piece when we make a dedicated visit, later in the year.
Meantime this wonderful building and museum can be found in the centre of Abu Dhabi, and is a fitting tribute and memorial to the nation's history.