The ancient city of Qaryat Al-Faw is located in the foothills of the Tuwaiq mountains, where it intersects with Wadi Al-Dawasir, overlooking the northwestern edge of the Empty Quarter.
Qaryat Al-Faw, which is 700 km southwest of Riyadh, is considered one of the most important ancient cities of the pre-Islamic era in Saudi Arabia.
It was the capital of the Kinda Kingdom from the first century B.C. to the fourth century, one of the ancient kingdoms in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula. It also intersects the ancient trade route Najran–Jerhae at a strategic point.
The discovery of Qaryat Al-Faw is one of the most important international archaeological finds as it captures a pre-Islamic Arab city with all its components still intact. Houses, wells, roads, market places, temples and graves were all found at this site.
ThePlace: Qaryat Al-Faw, one of the ancient cities of the pre-Islamic era in Saudi Arabia
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ThePlace: Qaryat Al-Faw, one of the ancient cities of the pre-Islamic era in Saudi Arabia
- Qaryat Al-Faw intersects the ancient trade route Najran–Jerhae at a strategic point
Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage
- Festival now established as a premier annual event
AlUla: The Winter at Tantora Festival launched on Thursday in AlUla. It runs until Jan. 10 and presents a cultural season which celebrates the region’s rich civilizational, cultural, and historic legacy.
The festival’s program includes a wide array of cultural, artistic, and traditional activities, reported the Saudi Press Agency.
Attractions include Old Town Nights, Shorfat Tantora, When Shadow Tracks Us, and the Al-Manshiyah Carnival.
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In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities.
In addition, there are guided tours of street art through the Old Town, special events commemorating the Year of Handicrafts, culinary experiences, and artistic and musical performances.
The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities. The modern festival honors this tradition by marking the onset of winter and the start of the planting season.
This year’s edition offers a range of experiences to celebrate heritage, genuine local culture, and traditional craftsmanship.
As part of AlUla Moments, the Winter at Tantora Festival supports efforts to boost cultural and tourist engagement while enhancing the visitor experience.
The initiative reflects Saudi Vision 2030’s commitment to advancing cultural tourism and promoting the Kingdom’s historic landmarks.
The festival has established itself as one of AlUla’s premier annual events, consistently attracting both domestic and international audiences.
