Madain Saleh: Exploring the Ancient City of Saudi Arabia
Madain Saleh, located in the Al-Ula region of Saudi Arabia, is an ancient city that dates back to the first century BC. It is the largest conserved site of the civilization of the Nabataeans, a nomadic Arab people who settled in the area in the fourth century BC. The city was the capital of the Nabataean kingdom and is considered to be the second most important Nabataean site after Petra in Jordan. Madain Saleh is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Saudi Arabia.
History of Madain Saleh
Madain Saleh was founded around the same time as Petra in Jordan, and it is believed that the two cities were connected by a trade route. The city was an important stop on the Incense Route, which was used to transport goods from the Arabian Peninsula to the Mediterranean. The Nabataeans were known for their advanced engineering and water management techniques, which allowed them to build a prosperous city in the desert.
The city was abandoned in the second century AD and rediscovered in the 19th century. In 2008, Madain Saleh was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Amazing Facts About Madain Saleh
Madain Saleh is home to over 131 tombs, which were carved into the sandstone cliffs. The tombs are decorated with intricate carvings and inscriptions, and some of them even have two stories.
The city was once home to a thriving population of around 20,000 people.
Madain Saleh was the first World Heritage Site to be inscribed in Saudi Arabia.
The city is home to the largest collection of Nabataean inscriptions in the world.
The city is also home to the ruins of a large temple dedicated to the Nabataean god Dushara.
Things to Do at Madain Saleh
Madain Saleh is a great place to explore the ancient culture and history of the Nabataeans. Here are some of the things you can do while visiting the city:
Explore the tombs: The tombs are some of the most impressive features of Madain Saleh, and they are well worth exploring. You can learn about the culture and history of the Nabataeans by studying the inscriptions and carvings on the tombs.
Visit the ruins of the temple: The ruins of the temple dedicated to Dushara are a must-see. The temple was once a center of worship for the Nabataeans and is now a fascinating archaeological site.
Go on a camel ride: Exploring Madain Saleh on the back of a camel is a great way to experience the city. You can take a guided tour of the tombs and ruins or just enjoy a leisurely ride through the desert.
Visit the nearby Al-Ula oasis: The oasis of Al-Ula is located near Madain Saleh and is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the desert. You can also visit the nearby Al-Ula Museum, which houses artifacts from the Nabataean era.
Madain Saleh is an incredible place to explore the history and culture of the Nabataeans. With its tombs, ruins, and oases, it is an unforgettable destination for any traveler.