Fortresses of Aden [Archives:2000/48/Last Page]

Aden, or the economic capital, lies in the southernmost part of Yemen. It is situated between longitudes 44,45 and latitudes 39, 40. The whole town with its surroundings overlooks the sea (Aden Gulf). Aden (Crater) is situated on a crater surrounded by a range of high mountains including Shamsan range of mountains which fences the whole town of Aden.
During and after the pre-Islamic period, Aden was the main port for the south of the Arab peninsula or what were known as the kingdoms of Maeen, Saba and Himyar.
Aden is about 8321 km in area and is inhabited by about 564335 people according to 1994 sensus. Administratively, Aden is divided into four Mudiriyats or districts:
1- Sirah with population of 123674 people
2- Al-Mina, 109030 people
3- Al-Shaab, 275117 people
4- Socotra, 56514 people
Crater which is also called great Aden is the most ancient and historic district in Aden. It is featured by its old architecture and a number of historic places such as:
1- The old Souq which to some extent resembles Souq al-Milh in Sanaa Al-Qadimah
2- Historic Mosques
3- Water Tanks
4- Aden Gate
5- Historic Fortresses
6- The Aden Minaret
7- Churches and old temples
8- Al-Bahgdatan
Sirah Fortress
It is situated at the top of Sirah mountain. The first reference to it was in Thaghr Aden as a military base. Throughout history the fortress has been rehabilitated more than once and it is still in good condition.
Al-Khadhraa Fortress
The Al-Khadhraa Fortress is placed at the top of Al-Khadhraa mountain overlooking the port. Today it is named Al-Mansouri fortress following the departure of the Turks.
Djabal Hadeed Fortress
It used to be the command headquarters of Al-Barzakh military camps. Then it was converted during the British colonization into a prison in which the Egyptian revolutionist Sad Zaghlool Basha was imprisoned in 1922. After that it was changed into a school for Sultans children.
Attaakar Fortress
It overlooks Aden gate. It is still in good condition but it needs some rehabilitation, specially the road leading to it.
Djabal Al-Ghadeer Fortress
It is located at the top of Al-Ghadeer mountain about 100 feet above the sea level and is 19 km away from the city center. It overlooks the Al-Khisah beach and is currently used as a military base. The way to the fortress consists of 1204 stairs made of stone and cement. During colonization it was used as a center to observe ships.


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