ThePlace: Zaabal Castle, centuries-old structure located in Saudi Arabia’s Sakaka

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Updated 13 December 2021
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ThePlace: Zaabal Castle, centuries-old structure located in Saudi Arabia’s Sakaka

  • The castle itself is believed to have been built about 200 years ago

SAKAKA: Nestled atop a mountain in the city of Sakaka in northwestern Saudi Arabia, Zaabal Castle is more than just a centuries-old structure. Its mud and stone-built walls tell tales of the past.
The castle contains four watchtowers and a water reservoir. The castle itself is believed to have been built about 200 years ago, but some of the structures that can be seen on the site have been there since the first century A.D.
The courtyard collected water that was then transferred into the wells in the city. The wells that are found there are large enough for people to be able to walk through them. However, for the safety of tourists, they remain sealed.
Aside from being an archaeological marvel, the fort sits on the highest point in the area, offering panoramic views of the city.

 


Saudi Arabia’s heritage, wildlife take spotlight at falcon festival

Updated 15 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia’s heritage, wildlife take spotlight at falcon festival

  • Visitors can explore interactive displays on habitat protection and the ecological importance of falcons, blending modern technology with authentic Saudi traditions to promote environmental stewardship

RIYADH: The King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority is taking part in the 10th Northern Borders Falcon Festival, held in Turaif governorate from Jan. 29 to Feb. 2, celebrating cultural heritage and promoting environmental conservation.

A centerpiece of the exhibition is the ancient craft of Sadu, with local artisans showcasing traditional weaving that reflects the reserve’s cultural identity, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

By empowering families in the cottage industry, the authority aims to preserve this living legacy as a vital part of national heritage, the SPA added.

The pavilion also highlights the authority’s ecological achievements, including the reintroduction of the Arabian oryx, sand gazelle, ibex and houbara bustard.

Visitors can explore interactive displays on habitat protection and the ecological importance of falcons, blending modern technology with authentic Saudi traditions to promote environmental stewardship.

In collaboration with the Saudi Falcons Club, the festival features more than 700 participants, including professional, elite and international falcon owners, as well as local amateurs. The competition spans 18 rounds, with total financial prizes exceeding SR1 million ($266,000).