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Hegra: Discover Nabataean History of AlUla

Hegra, or Mada’in Saleh, is an ancient city located in AlUla, Saudi Arabia. It is the Kingdom’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With more than 110 preserved tombs and ancient wonders, Hegra takes you in a fascinating journey through Nabataean history and AlUla’s rich heritage.

Hegra’s Cultural Significance

The ancient city boasts efficiently carved stone blocks, wells and stone-lined water channels that stand as a testament to the skilled craftsmanship and engineering of the city‘s ancient people. In addition, its defensive walls, gates and towers show the Roman influence on Hegra.

Hegra: Discover Nabataean History of AlUla

In recognition of its rich cultural heritage, Hegra has become Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site for being an outstanding example of the Nabataean civilization.

Hegra: Discover Nabataean History of AlUla

 

The city features well-preserved monumental tombs with decorated facades dating from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD. It also includes around 50 inscriptions of the pre-Nabataean period and some cave drawings.

Hegra Main Attractions

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) organizes tours and events to discover the wonders of the ancient Nabataean city of Hegra in an engaging an interactive way.

The tours will take you to the Tomb of Lihyan, Son of Kuza. It is one of Hegra’s largest tombs, with a height of 72 feet. Although it was never completed, the tomb has an unmatched architecture reflecting the Nabataean technique.

Jabal Banat

Then, you will pass by Jabal Banat. It is a sandstone rock with 29 skillfully carved tombs and one of the largest tomb clusters in Hegra. Its name refers to the number of tombs owned or commissioned by or for women.

Hegra: Discover Nabataean History of AlUla
Jabal Ithlib

Another famous destination is Jabal Ithlib, a natural mountain in the east of Hegra, with a captivating passageway between mountains. It has a large room (Diwan) carved into the rocks of the mountain that is believed to have been an important room for gatherings such as royal banquets and political meetings.

Jabal Ahmar

The next will be at Jabal Ahmar, famous for its outstanding red color rocks. It has 18 tombs, few of which were recently excavated.

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