The oasis was divided into three regions: al-Natat, al-Shikk, and al-Katiba, probably separated by natural divisions, such as the desert, lava drifts, and swamps. Each of these regions contained several fortresses or redoubts containing homes, storehouses and stables. Each fortress was occupied by a separate family and surrounded by cultivated fields and palm-groves. In order to improve their defensive capabilities, the settlers raised the fortresses up on hills or basalt rocks.
The oasis was divided into three regions al-Natat al-Shikk and al-Katiba probably separated by natural divisions such as the desert lava drifts and swamps Each of these regions contained several fortresses or redoubts containing homes storehouses and stables Each fortress was occupied by a separate family and surrounded by cultivated fields and palm-groves In order to improve their defensive capabilities the settlers raised the fortresses up on hills or basalt rocks