Historical Overview of the Tower

Burj Al-Askar is located on a high rocky peak overlooking the old city of Taqah and its fort from the north. It comprises three towers: one on the northeast side, another on the west, and the last on the south. It was built using sandstone and wood.

It is believed that the tower was constructed in the late 19th century, and it was used as the residence for the governor's guards. It is a military defense tower, and it was renovated in 2008.

The original purpose of the tower was to protect the city of Taqah from external threats and to monitor people entering and leaving. It housed the city's soldiers, while the commanding officer of the soldiers resided in the fort. The soldiers worked under the leadership of the city’s governor, who was called the "Colonel of Soldiers" until 1971. They reported administratively and financially to the governor of Dhofar in Salalah.