ABHA: Ancient palaces and forts in Asir region have been restored to attract tourists to experience history in a modern setting.     The palaces and forts are located in six different areas varying in size and height. Some of the structures that have been restored are Abu Nuqtah Palace in Tabab near Abha, Lahj Palace located in Al-Dara village in Abha, and the Wazih and Aziz palaces and Al-Musalla fort in Al-Abu Sarah, located in Al-Aziza village of Al-Soudah. The palaces, some of which are more than 200 years old, are made of stones and wood, and have been turned into hotels with cafes and restaurants and other modern amenities, while preserving original architectural aesthetics. Saeed bin Saud Al-Mathami, chairman of the board of directors of Abu Nuqtah Al-Mathami Center, said the idea of restoring and rehabilitating the old palaces was to support cultural tourism in the Kingdom based on its rich heritage. Al-Mathami said that the historic sites not only attract tourists but also educate future generations about the region’s culture and history “that we all are proud of.” Al-Mathami also said that rehabilitating these palaces will support the local economy and bring scores of opportunities for the region. “We have started to feel the economic impact on society of these tourist projects,” he said.