Al-kharj: Al-Kharj Governorate in Riyadh Region marks Founding Day by honoring the legacy of the First Saudi State and the foundations it established for unity, security, and stability. Among its most significant historical landmarks stands Al-Kout Palace, also known as Al-Kout Tower, a symbol of the governorate's deep-rooted heritage.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the palace was built in 1781 during the reign of Imam Saud bin Abdulaziz bin Mohammed bin Saud. It was constructed as a defensive fortress to safeguard the region and reinforce its stability, reflecting the agricultural and strategic importance of Al-Kharj and its surrounding areas at that time in the history of the First Saudi State.
The palace exemplifies 18th-century defensive architecture, featuring fortified walls and watchtowers designed to protect the settlement. Although only sections of the original structure remain today, Al-Kout Tower continues to stand tall as a powerful testament to a pivotal chapter in Saudi history. Officially registered as a historical landmark, the site receives dedicated attention from relevant authorities as part of ongoing efforts to preserve national heritage and pass it on to future generations.