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Ability level: Beginner

Hegra (Mada’in Salih)

Saudi Arabia's First World Heritage Site in Desert category

The Hegra Archaeological Site is the first World Heritage property to be inscribed in Saudi Arabia. It features well-preserved monumental tombs with decorated facades dating from the 1st century BC to the 1st century ADThe site also features some 50 inscriptions of the pre-Nabataean period and some cave drawings. Al-Hijr bears a unique testimony to Nabataean civilization. With its 111 monumental tombs, 94 of which are decorated, and water wells, the site is an outstanding example of the Nabataeans’ architectural accomplishment and hydraulic expertise.Hegra is located in the Al-Ula governorate in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, under the administrative jurisdiction of Madinah. 

 

Hegra is an open archaeological museum set in the sands of Wadi al-Qura, covering over 13 km, with impressive mountains visible that feature intricately carved facades. While Hegra is best known for its monuments associated with the Nabataeans, it also contains significant remains and inscriptions from the Lihyan and Dadan kingdoms, which existed in the valley before the Nabataeans.

 

Hegra is home to 131 tombs, reflecting Nabataean religious symbols and social status. Among its notable structures is Qasr al-Farid, a 22-meter-high tomb carved from a single rock with a unique four-column facade. Jabal Ithlib served as a surveillance and religious center, with around 130 wells and various inscriptions. The Qasr al-Bint includes 33 diverse tombs, while Al-Sanea Tomb is recognized for its intact facade, dating back to King Aretas IV's reign.

Specifications

Introduction of the location and specifications of Hegra (Mada’in Salih)
Oldness: 1st century AD
Construction Period: Nabataean period
Location: Al Madinah, Al-Ula
Coordinates: 26.77680200, 37.94770800
Height above mean sea: 900 meter
Land Form: Volcanic, Desert
Faunas: Presence of predatory animals
Transports: Personal car, Minibus, Bus
Native Languages: Arabic

Geographical Location

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