It is among the largest defense structures around the city of Fez and one of the few to incorporate European-style changes in military architecture in the gunpowder age.

The Saadians, whose capital was Marrakesh, had faced notable resistance to their rule in Fez and the fort is one of several that they built around the city.

The large corner bastions of the fort (giving it a star-like appearance from above) are believed to have been added later during the Alaouite period.

[5] Its collection includes up to 5000 pieces (only a part of which are on display) originating from 35 countries and dating from prehistory to the 20th century.

One of the notable artifacts on display is an enormous Saadian cannon that was used during the Battle of Three Kings in 1578, nearly 5 meters long and weighing around 12 tons.