muzei na letishteto

 

damam

 

Az Zilfi, Ar Riyad, Saudi Arabia

 

Medina Museum

 

The historical monument of Bin Raqoush Palace in Al-Baha

 Al-Baha region contains many historical castles and forts built of mud and rocks that attracts tourists and visitors from inside and outside the Kingdom, especially because of its stunning nature overlooking Hijaz mountains and mild climate throughout the year. One of the most prominent palaces that tells the historical legacy of Al Baha is Bin Raqoush Palace, which was built in 1833.

The historical palace received a visit from King Saud bin Abdulaziz in 1954. Being an architectural masterpiece, its walls, floors, and roofs were restored and rehabilitated while preserving its local identity and cultural heritage. Because of its historical significance, many heritage activities are held on the palace during national and social occasions.

The palace was built by the Bin Raqoush family, one of the families of the region. It consists of five large houses of varying floor levels, including up to three floors. It is described as an integrated housing compound, where there is a small school, living areas, horse stables, a mosque, and orchards. In addition, the palace contains many bedrooms, a large living area for the tribe, a water well, an inner courtyard, and two outside courtyards around the palace.

Traversing the fertile Al-Faqrah Mountains

 In Madinah lies the picturesque Al-Faqrah Mountains, combining charming views with a crisp atmosphere. 

Foggy weather, perpetual rain that cuts through the sunlight, rocky fields punctuated by lush green pockets and constant fresh breezes all contribute to making the mountain range a wonderful tourist destination.

Spinal shape

The Arabic name “Al-Faqrah” literally translates as “vertebrae”, and it was named so as the mountains form a straight line resembling a human spine from the air. Famous peaks include Al-Ashaar Mountain known for its dense trees, and Al-Ajrad Mountain characterized by its distinctively brown rocks and lack of foliage.

A fertile mountain range

The summits of the mountains reach the clouds and the location enjoys a moderate climate in the summer that attracts many tourists and local residents. 

At its highest point, the range stands at about 1,800 meters above sea level.

The mountains are also known for their fertile lands and so trees growing oranges, pomegranates, figs and various types of dates can be found scattered throughout. The region is also famous for producing mountain honey, with locals practicing the beekeeping profession for generations.

Accessing Al-Faqrah

The Al-Faqrah mountains can be accessed via three main routes, but visitors are advised to use a four-wheel-drive vehicle when travelling to the area due to the rugged nature of the roads.

 The first is the Madinah-Al-Fraish dual carriageway, with a length of approximately 82 kilometers. 

The second is the Al-Musayjid Arhaqan Al-Aneeq road, which is around 50 kilometers long. 

The third is Yanbu Al-Nakhl road, partly a dirt trail and partly an asphalted road that ascends Dumdum Mountain, about five kilometers from Al-Faqrah mountains.

Mount Shathath: Guardian of Dhahran Al-Janoub

 

If you are travelling through the southern Asir province, do make time to visit the Dhahran Al-Janoub area, especially as you are likely to be greeted by the majestic Mount Shathath. Standing 2,800 meters above sea level, this impressive mountain is characterized by its blue-black color that resembles that of the sky.

The local municipality erected a luminous sign bearing Dhahran Al-Janoub’s name on the northern side of Mount Shathath. So highly regarded is the mountain, locals call it the “Guardian of Dhahran Al-Janoub”.

Mountain features

Mount Shathath’s topography consists of cliffs, trees, and fragrant plants such as basil and chrysanthemum. Many inscriptions from ancient eras can be found on its rocks, highlighting Dhahran Al-Janoub’s historical importance; the governorate contains many landmarks such as the Elephant Road, archaeological villages and tombs dating back to prehistoric times.

A climb to the top

Visitors will enjoy climbing up to the mountain’s summit, where they will be amazed by the surrounding landscapes, natural cave formations and abundance of water springs.