By Loay Al-Zube
Located in Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ula region, the Hijr archaeological site is an ancient city and one of the first UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Saudi Arabia. The area is rich in history, and there are many interesting facts about HIJR that you may not know. Here are 10 things you probably didn’t know about the HIJR.
1. HIJR is the Largest Ancient City in Saudi Arabia
HIJR is the largest ancient city in Saudi Arabia, covering an area of approximately 25 square kilometers. It was initially occupied by the Lihyanite Kingdom, but was later taken over by the Nabataeans.
2. HIJR is Home to the Tombs of Nabataean Kings
The tombs of the Nabataean kings are located in HIJR. The tombs are built with large stones, and the entrance is decorated with sandstone carvings. The tombs contain inscriptions that give insight into the life of the Nabataean kings and their kingdom.
3. HIJR is Home to an Ancient Water System
HIJR is home to an ancient water system, which is believed to have been built by the Nabataeans. The system was used to supply the city with water, and it is still in use today.
4. HIJR is Home to Ancient Rock Art
HIJR is home to some of the oldest rock art in the region. The art dates back to the 4th century BC, and it depicts animals, people, and scenes from daily life.
5. HIJR is Home to Ancient Structures
The ancient city of HIJR is home to numerous ancient structures, including temples, fortresses, and burial sites. The structures are made of stone and brick, and they are an interesting reminder of the city’s past.
6. HIJR is Home to the World’s Largest Concentration of Pre-Islamic Rock Art
HIJR is home to the world’s largest concentration of pre-Islamic rock art. The art dates back to the 4th century BC, and it depicts animals, people, and scenes from daily life.
7. HIJR is Home to Ancient Irrigation Systems
HIJR is home to ancient irrigation systems, which were used to supply the city with water. The systems are still in use today, and they are an important part of the city’s history.
8. HIJR is Home to Ancient Temples
The ancient city of HIJR is home to several ancient temples, which were constructed during the Nabataean era. The temples are decorated with sandstone carvings, and they provide a fascinating insight into the beliefs and customs of the time.
9. HIJR is Home to Ancient Roads
HIJR is home to ancient roads, which were used to connect the city to other parts of the region. The roads are still in use today, and they are an important part of the city’s history.
10. HIJR is Home to an Ancient Observatory
HIJR is home to an ancient observatory, which was used to observe the stars and planets. The observatory is an important reminder of the city’s past, and it provides insight into the ancient astronomers’ beliefs and understandings of the universe.