Discover Sabya’s Ancient Castles, Living Proof of Saudi Architectural Heritage

Esraa Elsheikh May 26, 2024

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Discover Sabya’s Ancient Castles, Living Proof of Saudi Architectural Heritage — Sabya’s Ancient Castles

In ancient times, Sabya was generally known as an exceptional village full of archaeological and heritage sites that stand as a testament to the ancient Saudi history and civilization.

Located at Jazan region, Saudi Arabia, Sabya’s majesty has long entranced archaeologists and historians with various archaeological and heritage sites dating back to different emirates throughout history.

Among these sites is the Sabya Archaeological Castle, whose origins date to the early 20th century.

This treasure trove is basically an architectural miracle, boasting spacious rooms with high ceilings and thick walls. The walls are ornamented with astonishing geometric and floral patterns, marking an obvious indication of the creativity of the craftsmen who built them.

Those brilliant architectures used local materials such as volcanic stone, wood, and limestone to manifest the captivating beauty of the castle. The architectures brought stones from volcanoes near the city, including Jabal Akwa, located a short distance northeast of Sabya.

Some accounts suggest that the clay used in making bricks was taken from the banks of Wadi Sabya, according to Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

The site crystalizes another architectural masterpiece, an amazing mosque, situated north of the castle. It was constructed using the same building materials as the castle in order to be the major religious destination for prayers and gatherings of religious leaders, dignitaries, and the people of Sabya. The mosque still maintains its mihrab, or prayer niche, despite some damage.

Some accounts suggest that remains of other buildings might exist in the vicinity of the castle, unleashing the opportunity of conducting archaeological excavations to reveal the hidden secrets about this site.

Realizing the great status of this castle as one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Jazan region, the Kingdom’s Heritage Commission is actively working to preserve the Sabya Archaeological Castle.