RIYADH: Driven by nostalgia and a desire to reconnect with their roots, residents of Al-Aroud village in Asir region are reclaiming a piece of their ancestral homeland after a 50-year absence.
Fueled by government initiatives and their own emotional ties, they have partnered with the local municipality to transform a section of the village into a bustling hub for community gatherings.
The village comprises more than 150 houses, including three palaces and two historical fortresses, as well as a recently restored old mosque.
Nestled amid ancient houses, some dating back 300 years, the revitalized space serves as a meeting point for weekly social gatherings and recreational activities. These include lively discussions on community issues, cultural festivities and a rediscovery of old customs.
“Many of the houses are weathered but their spirit remains strong,” said Abdulhadi Al-Shehri, a resident.
“It is our emotional attachment to this place that brought us together to revive it. We started with a gathering site, a place to connect during holidays and vacations, to share stories and practice our cherished folk traditions.”
This grassroots initiative marks the starting point for a broader restoration project relying on both community resources and municipal support.
Asir region is home to in excess of 4,300 heritage villages, some of which are more than 500 years old. It boasts 651 archaeological sites registered on the national heritage list, containing stones, inscriptions and drawings dating back to pre-Islamic times.
