Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
Bermuda
Canada
the United States
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Australia
Fiji
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Ruins · Siwa, Matrouh
Shali Fortress
Ruins of the ancient fortified town of Siwa, built of mud and salt over a rock outcrop in the center of the oasis, abandoned in the 20th century after heavy rains. From the top you can see the whole oasis.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Shali Fortress
Shali, the old fortified town of Siwa, sits on a rock outcrop in the middle of the present-day town. It was built from the 13th century using karshif, a material of mud and salt, and palm trunks, and once reached five storeys of houses pressed together and protected by walls.
In 1926 a rare storm dissolved parts of the salt walls, and residents gradually left the old town for new houses around it. The ruins remain, with narrow streets, stairways and dug-out walls, and the old mosque was restored and is still in use.
From the top of Shali you can see the whole oasis: the palm groves, the salt lakes and the hills of Aghurmi and Gebel al-Mawta. Parts of the old town have been restored using traditional techniques.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour, with the climb through the narrow lanes.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, when the light over the oasis is softer and the heat is lower.
How to get there
On foot, in Siwa’s town center, next to the market square.
Tip
Wear sturdy shoes: the mud alleys and stairs are uneven.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Shali Fortress
What is Shali?
It is the old fortified town of Siwa, built of mud and salt on a rock in the center of the oasis and abandoned in the 20th century.
Why was Shali abandoned?
In 1926, heavy and rare rains dissolved parts of the mud-and-salt walls, and residents moved into new houses around it.
Can you climb Shali?
Yes. The alleys and steps lead up to the top, from where you can see the whole oasis.