ThePlace: Rajajil Columns, the ‘Stonehenge of Saudi Arabia’

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Archaeologists believe the Rajajil Columns have stood in position since about 4,000 B.C.  (Supplied)
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Archaeologists believe the Rajajil Columns have stood in position since about 4,000 B.C. 
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Updated 02 October 2021
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ThePlace: Rajajil Columns, the ‘Stonehenge of Saudi Arabia’

  • Archaeologists understand that the site served as a burial place but others believe the columns served an astronomical purpose

The Rajajil Columns, a mysterious site located 20 kilometers south of Sakakah city, are often nicknamed the “Stonehenge of Saudi Arabia.”

The name of the site translates to “the men,” and the monument might be the oldest in the region, researchers say.

Mystery surrounding the origins of the monument has attracted significant attention and visitors from around the Kingdom. Many myths and superstitions surround the columns. Archaeologists understand that the site served as a burial place, but have yet to discover more about the importance of the columns.




Archaeologists understand that the site served as a burial place but others believe the columns served an astronomical purpose

The site consists of 50 monolithic stones that stick out of the ground at different angles. It is believed that they have stood in position since about 4,000 B.C. However, over the centuries, some have fallen to the ground.

Despite the dominant burial site theory, a competing belief proposes that the stones originally served an astronomical purpose due to the angles in which they stand in relation to the stars above, adding to the mystery of the site.

Visitors must seek prior permission from authorities before visiting the site.


Saudi King Salman receives message from Russian president

Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Elkhereiji received the message from Russian Ambassador Sergey Kozlov. (SPA)
Updated 30 December 2025
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Saudi King Salman receives message from Russian president

  • The two officials reviewed strong relations between Saudi Arabia and Russia

RIYADH: King Salman received a written message from Russian President Vladmir Putin regarding ties between the two countries.

Russian Ambassador to the Kingdom Sergey Kozlov delivered the message to Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Elkhereiji in Riyadh, the Foreign Ministry wrote in a post on X on Tuesday. 

The two officials reviewed strong relations between Saudi Arabia and Russia and discussed the latest regional and international developments, as well as the efforts made in this regard.