Riyadh: Located on the northern bank of Wadi Najran, the historic village of Al-Manjam showcases distinct mud architecture and is a key cultural landmark in the region.
The village features seven towering mudbrick palaces, each from four to seven stories high. These buildings include a mosque, horse stables, majlises (meeting rooms), grain storage areas, and upper balconies.
The site is enclosed by a thick mud wall with three main gates, preserving its historical significance, according to a recent Saudi Press Agency report.
Rashid Al-Manjam, the village’s supervisor, said the site has stood for over 300 years and has undergone restoration over the past two decades, transforming it into a heritage destination for history enthusiasts and tourists.
Each building reflects distinct architectural styles and functions. The Al-Mashoulq structure has sloping angles and a low roof, while the Al-Murabba and Al-Qasaba buildings are circular that narrow at the top, often constructed on corners for defense.
The Al-Muqaddam, a three-story building with an inner courtyard, serves as both a majlis and storage area.
Constructed from local materials including mud, palm fronds, tamarisk and sidr wood, these buildings illustrate a sustainable relationship with the environment.
Al-Manjam said that ongoing preservation efforts align with Saudi Vision 2030.
The aim is to revive national heritage, empower local communities, and transform heritage villages into tourist destinations, thereby strengthening cultural identity and contributing to the national economy, he said.
