Alex
Qasr Bshir, also known as Mobene, is one of the best-preserved Roman forts in the Middle East, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience a near-intact 4th-century military installation. Upon entering the fort, one is greeted by a Latin inscription above the main gate, commemorating the construction of the post—a unique feature still in its original position. The fortress is almost square in plan, measuring about 57 by 54 meters, and features imposing corner towers that still stand three stories high, reaching approximately 13 meters. These towers contain guard chambers and spiral staircases, providing insight into the defensive architecture of the period.
Inside the fort, the central courtyard is surrounded by 23 rooms identified as stables on the ground floor, with the upper floor likely serving as living quarters for soldiers. The courtyard also houses two large cisterns that collected and stored rainwater, essential for sustaining the garrison in the arid environment. The walls of the fort are constructed with massive masonry, some stones being megalithic in size, and the interior walls were originally plastered. The design reflects a practical yet efficient layout tailored to Roman military needs, allowing visitors to visualise the daily operations of a frontier outpost.
