Rock inscriptions in Saudi Arabia’s Baha bookmark a historic era

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The carvings are believed to date back some 1,400 years. (SPA)
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The carvings are believed to date back some 1,400 years. (SPA)
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The carvings are believed to date back some 1,400 years. (SPA)
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The carvings are believed to date back some 1,400 years. (SPA)
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Updated 17 July 2024
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Rock inscriptions in Saudi Arabia’s Baha bookmark a historic era

  • Site epitomizes rich cultural tapestry

RIYADH: The “Book Plateau,” in the heart of Saudi Arabia’s Baha region, is drawing visitors from far and wide. Nestled in Baljurashi, the inscribed rock epitomizes the rich cultural tapestry of the area.

Located at the confluence of two streams at the foot of Wadi Khara, this archaeological wonder has been likened to the pages of an open book and earned its name from the old inscriptions adorning its surface, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The carvings are believed to date back some 1,400 years. The site boasts early Islamic inscriptions without diacritical marks, some of which bear the names of the Prophet’s companions and their followers.

There is another rock formation nearby which resembles a palm, bearing different inscriptions. Five graves can be found at the top of Mihras Mountain, two of which are noticeably elevated. While their exact history and occupants remain unknown, it is believed they belong to people who once inhabited the area.

Abdulrahman Al-Ghamdi, director general of the Heritage Authority in Baha, told the SPA that the authority had included the site in the National Antiquities Register following a survey in 2005. The inscriptions, which are etched onto granite rock faces, stand as silent witnesses to the area’s historic importance.

Baha’s summer season is attracting local and international visitors to its heritage villages and historic and archaeological sites.

These attractions have become crucial economic drivers, shaping the national tourism vision in line with the Kingdom’s ambitious goals.

They also showcase the region’s historic legacy for present and future generations.


Red Sea International Film Festival cancels events on Tuesday due to weather in Jeddah

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Red Sea International Film Festival cancels events on Tuesday due to weather in Jeddah

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea International Film Festival has closed for the remainder of Tuesday as rain and thunder hit the port city of Jeddah.

Oscar-nominated director Darren Aronofsky was just taking the stage in a cinema in Jeddah’s Cultural Square for an “In Conversation” presentation when the rain began to worsen. The filmmaker’s talk would become the festival’s final public event of the day, as all activities were cancelled, including an “In Conversation” panel with British actor Riz Ahmed, who is on this year’s jury. 

“Due to the unstable weather and heavy rainfall in Jeddah today, Tuesday, December 9, Culture Square and the Red Sea Souk will be closed for the remainder of the day to ensure everyone’s safety. All screenings, activities and programs today have been cancelled. Please stay tuned to our official channels and the festival app for any further updates. Note: Refunds for cancelled screenings will be provided,” read an announcement from the organizers.