The museum is housed in Al Fahidi Fort, a square structure featuring three towers made of coral rocks, mud bricks, and mortar. The oldest part of the fort is one of the two round towers, constructed around 1787 (as you can see, the third is rectangular). By 1799, the fort evolved into a fortress to protect the city from the raids of neighbouring tribes as well as the expansionist plans of the European powers. Over time, additional towers and walls were added. The fortress has served various roles throughout its history: as the ruler's seat, a weapons and artillery arsenal, and a prison. In the 1970s, it was restored and transformed into a museum.