Baha’s historic architecture echoes its heritage

Baha’s architectural marvels serve as proud caretakers of tradition, telling stories from bygone ages and adding to the rich tapestry of Saudi civilization. (SPA)
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Updated 25 February 2024
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Baha’s historic architecture echoes its heritage

  • Tourists and visitors are captivated by the architectural brilliance of Saudi forefathers in constructing these palaces and fortresses, admiring their skill in crafting stone edifices

RIYADH: The historical castles and fortresses that dot the landscape of Baha in southwest Saudi Arabia serve as bright reminders of the country’s great founding story.

From quaint villages to bustling settlements, each corner of the region has its own piece of history in the form of majestic castles and fortresses.

These architectural marvels serve as proud caretakers of tradition, telling stories from bygone ages and adding to the rich tapestry of Saudi civilization.




Baha’s architectural marvels serve as proud caretakers of tradition, telling stories from bygone ages and adding to the rich tapestry of Saudi civilization. (SPA)

Tourists and visitors are captivated by the architectural brilliance of Saudi forefathers in constructing these palaces and fortresses, admiring their skill in crafting stone edifices.

Among the notable landmarks is Bin Raqoush Palace, now a hub of cultural and historical significance, drawing dignitaries and visitors from far and wide.

FASTFACTS

● Among Baha’s notable landmarks is Bin Raqoush Palace, now a hub of cultural and historical significance, drawing dignitaries and visitors from far and wide.

● Efforts to revitalize have gained traction, particularly during national celebrations like Saudi Founding Day.

Similarly, the Bakhrush bin Alas Fortress in Qura governorate; the ancestral castles of Al-Osaidhan family; and the charming village of Shabraqah, north of Baha city, hold their own historical charm.




Baha’s architectural marvels serve as proud caretakers of tradition, telling stories from bygone ages and adding to the rich tapestry of Saudi civilization. (SPA)

The imposing Al-Akhawayn Fortress overlooks Al-Malad village, a monument to history amid ancient heritage homes. Meanwhile, Al-Ayed Heritage Guesthouse in Bani Kabir village and the Mishref Palace in Baljurashi add to the region’s allure, commanding views of the historic Saturday Market.

Despite the passage of time and exposure to diverse elements, these ancient fortifications stand tall, a testament to the craftsmanship of builders and their resilience.

With their distinctive conical shapes and towering heights of 20-25 meters, these structures boast intricate designs and are adorned with white marble stones, exuding a captivating aura.




Baha’s architectural marvels serve as proud caretakers of tradition, telling stories from bygone ages and adding to the rich tapestry of Saudi civilization. (SPA)

Originally built for surveillance during times of conflict, these strongholds now serve as poignant reminders of the region’s history, tucked within village courtyards or towering atop hillsides, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.

Efforts to revitalize have gained traction, particularly during national celebrations like Saudi Founding Day.

By organizing heritage events and artistic showcases, authorities aim to preserve Saudi cultural identity, encourage awareness for the country’s rich history, safeguard cultural heritage and societal norms, spotlight local talents, and improve tourist experiences at heritage sites.

With locals taking pride in their heritage and taking on their restoration as well, these sites have become magnets for visitors, photographers, and enthusiasts alike, offering opportunities to document and explore diverse aspects of Saudi heritage.

Their eagerness to capture the essence of these historical sites has led to a flurry of activity, with documentaries being produced in various fields including architecture, fashion, jewelry, culinary arts, agriculture, and weaponry.

 


Saudi FM discusses regional developments with Russian counterpart

Updated 57 min 12 sec ago
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Saudi FM discusses regional developments with Russian counterpart

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan discussed regional developments and bilateral relations during a phone call with Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday. 

The ministers discussed bilateral ties and regional developments, a statement on the Saudi foreign ministry account on platform “X”. 

 

 

 


Japan ambassador attends manga exhibition in Riyadh

Updated 15 January 2025
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Japan ambassador attends manga exhibition in Riyadh

  • ‘Manga Hokusai Manga’ exhibition held to mark 70 years of diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Japan

RIYADH: Japan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Yasunari Morino attended the opening ceremony of the “Manga Hokusai Manga” exhibition here on Tuesday.

Held at the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art, the show is one of many upcoming events celebrating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The exhibition celebrates the work of renowned Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai.

In his speech, Morino said it was a “delight to see more and more Saudi people enjoying the Japanese culture from (the) traditional to contemporary.”

He added that he was happy to see “Saudi artists being inspired by the Japanese manga to create their artworks.”

“I sincerely hope this exhibition will make another footprint of the Japanese culture in KSA and give a great impact in the Saudi art scene,” he said.

The exhibition has been organized in cooperation with the Saudi Museums Commission and the Japan Foundation and is open to the public until Feb. 8.

A version of this article appeared on Arab News Japan

 


Saudi aid agency KSrelief distributes over 2,000 food parcels in Pakistan

Updated 15 January 2025
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Saudi aid agency KSrelief distributes over 2,000 food parcels in Pakistan

RIYADH: The Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief has distributed 2,028 food parcels in Pakistan’s flood-affected Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa regions, benefiting 13,159 people, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

Sunday’s initiative forms part of this year’s Food Security Support Project in Pakistan.

The aid reflects the Kingdom’s ongoing humanitarian efforts through KSrelief to assist needy individuals in Pakistan.


Energy ministers discuss Saudi-Japan cooperation

Updated 15 January 2025
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Energy ministers discuss Saudi-Japan cooperation

RIYADH: Japan’s Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yoji Muto held discussions on cooperation with Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz on Tuesday.

The officials reviewed current ties and stressed the importance of joint efforts in energy transitions, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The ministers welcomed the progress made under the Manar Initiative, which is a Saudi-Japan effort to promote clean energy.

The initiative was launched after former Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s visit to Saudi Arabia in 2023.

A version of this story originally appeared on Arab News Japan


Saudi aid agency KSrelief treats hundreds at Aden prosthetics center

Updated 15 January 2025
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Saudi aid agency KSrelief treats hundreds at Aden prosthetics center

  • The services included the manufacturing and fitting of prosthetic limbs, as well as physical therapy

RIYADH: The Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief has helped to treat 452 Yemenis, who lost limbs because of the ongoing conflict, at the Prosthetics and Rehabilitation Center in Aden governorate, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

A total of 1,407 procedures were completed for men, who made up 65 percent of patients, and women at 35 percent.

In addition, 54 percent were displaced individuals and 46 percent residents.

The services included the manufacturing and fitting of prosthetic limbs, as well as physical therapy.

KSrelief continues to provide general and critical care for vulnerable Yemeni people, the SPA reported.