JEDDAH: Nestled amid the rugged granite mountains of Maysan governorate in Taif, the villages of Bani Malik, Bani Saad, and Thaqif boast a unique architectural heritage.
Houses in these villages are skillfully constructed from the very stone that forms the towering peaks around them, a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of generations past, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Visitors to Maysan are captivated by local people’s stories, and by the striking resemblance between the colors of their houses and the mountains.
Many locals are eager to share their rich cultural heritage, including traditional crafts, arts, chants, and ancient tools used in construction, such as the pickaxe and chisel.
The villages of Maysan offer a distinctive architectural experience. Visitors can explore houses carved into the mountaintops and villages built on rocks adorned with grapevine, apricot, peach, and almond branches.
Ancient dams in these villages are renowned for their suitability to the rocky terrain and their ability to withstand the elements, SPA said. Constructed from granite stones and covered with clay, the structures stand as enduring symbols of the past.
Adding to the allure, Wadi Qarn, west of Taif governorate, boasts a diverse landscape of sandy deserts, rugged mountains, and lush greenery, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor adventure.
The valley is home to aromatic wild plants, and a variety of rare migratory animals and birds. Adorned with rock carvings depicting camels, Wadi Qarn entices visitors to explore its natural wonders.
Wadi Qarn extends toward the west to Wadi Al-Sayl Al-Kabeer, supporting villages, farms, and leopard habitats in Wadi Mahram.
It gives rise to eastern and western tributaries, with villages such as Mallah, Al-Multawi, and Al-Dar nestled along wadis that share their names.
Visitors can enjoy the valley’s natural beauty, flowing waters, and rich biodiversity.
The area is known for its diverse wildlife and striking geological formations, such as rocky slopes and hills of varying sizes, that set it apart from other landscapes.
