MADINAH: The heritage neighborhood project in Madinah’s King Fahd Park encompasses many old-fashioned businesses imitating the commercial environment of the city decades ago. The project, covering 120,000 square meters, aims to preserve the city’s urban and architectural heritage, under a directive by Madinah Gov. Prince Faisal bin Salman.
The district imitates the city’s old residential and commercial areas. Old architectural-style buildings and restaurants selling Madinah’s traditional yagmoush, balila, manto, luqaimat and rice cooked in different styles surround an imitated Al-Oyayna market, which was the most famous market in Madinah for 300 years. As the market used to lead straight to the Prophet’s Mosque, it was demolished for the expansion of the mosque 30 years ago.
“A merchant who didn’t own a dukkan (shop) in Al-Oyayna market was considered a small businessman,” said Omar Barnawi, who showcased the profession of chair-banding — the occupation of adorning rope chairs — which no longer exists. “Demand for such chairs is now very weak because of developments in chair manufacturing, but some people still like to buy them. A set of these chairs costs about SR2,500 ($667).”
Blacksmith Mousa Hawsa, who makes antique lanterns, doors and windows, said he learned the profession from his father since childhood.
Carpenter Adam Hassan has been in the trade for 40 years. “I make doors, windows and Madinah-style balconies known as rawasheen in different sizes and styles,” he said. One rowshan takes two weeks to make, he said, adding that the spread of the use of aluminum and metals in manufacturing reduced demand for wood products. “Besides, new generations don’t like carpentry,” he said.
Madinah heritage district: A story from the past
Madinah heritage district: A story from the past
Interactive experiences bring stories of courage and patience to life at Prince Turki bin Saud Palace
RIYADH: At the historic Prince Turki bin Saud Palace in Diriyah, past and present converge as immersive experiences revive stories of courage, patience and resilience rooted in the era of the First Saudi State.
The palace is one of the key landmarks featured in the “Hal Al-Qusoor” program, a flagship initiative of Diriyah Season 25/26, drawing visitors eager to explore a site rich in cultural and social significance.
Prince Turki was born in the At-Turaif District of historic Diriyah in the late 12th century AH (18th century). He grew up in an environment shaped by courage, horsemanship and leadership, influenced by his father, Imam Saud bin Abdulaziz, the commander of the First Saudi State’s armies.
Located in the southern part of the At-Turaif District, the palace was constructed in the early 13th century AH and reflects the traditional Najdi architectural style.
Built using mud bricks, stone and tamarisk wood, the structure consists of two floors arranged around a central courtyard.
Its wide gates and multiple exits reflect both the architectural traditions of the time and the practical realities of life during that era.
As visitors move through the palace, they can imagine the discussions and strategic decisions that once took place within its walls and contributed to Diriyah’s resilience.
Today, interactive experiences enhanced by sound and lighting technologies bring these historical narratives to life, offering an engaging window into the past.
From private living spaces to formal reception and meeting halls, the palace presents a vivid picture of daily life during the First Saudi State, with architectural details that echo stories of bravery and steadfastness.
Diriyah Season 25/26 supports the vision of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority by reinforcing Diriyah’s role as the birthplace of the Saudi State.
