Hegra

Hegra is not only an architectural marvel but also Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hegra is the most indiscreet Nabataean civilization site in Saudi Arabia. Explore more than 110 remarkably well-preserved tombs while learning about the ancient AlUla people and their culture. These tombs are situated in a desert setting.

Here you will find proof of human existence since the first millennium BCE. The city was at its peak from the late second century BCE to the second century CE. Still, the position of this Nabataean metropolis from the end of the first millennium BCE to the beginning of the first millennium CE appears distinctive and well-preserved.

You will find 130 wells and stone-lined water channels in addition to the magnificent tombs, which were used to bury the Nabataean elite. These features highlight the civilization's high level of craftsmanship. According to excavations, the excavations used ceramic pipes and stone-lined water channels to transport water from courtyards into the streets. Additionally, these wells were carved above the façade of the tombs to direct precipitation away from the delicate carvings and also to preserve them for hundreds of years.

Its strategic location gave the Nabataean leaders control over the ancient Incense Road from southern Arabia north to Egypt, the Mediterranean, Mesopotamia, and beyond. Roman architecture can also be seen in the former city's protective walls, gates, and towers.

There are inscriptions all over the Hegra site. They shed light on the traditions and beliefs of past civilizations as well as the roots of the Arabic language.

How to explore Hegra?

• You can learn about the historical importance of Hegra, the Nabatean culture, their inventiveness, and their magnificent tombs through interactive 360-degree tours.
• Explore 18 tombs that have lately undergone excavation in one of Hegra's outcrops. They are situated in the area named Jabal AlAhmar, which alludes to the red color of the rock.
• The ancient city of Hegra is surrounded by rocky outcrops, home to over 100 magnificent tombs. Out of 29 tombs that are carved out of sandstone rock, Jabal AlBanat boasts one of the greatest collections of tombs.
• The religious or ceremonial activities were centered around Jabal Ithlib, a natural mountain outcrop to the east of the city. Learn about the nuances of these practices.
• Explore other areas to see tombs honoring doctors, soldiers, community leaders, and others. Some of these beautiful burial chambers still have inscriptions above them that list the people who were interred there.
• You'll notice numerous betyls or stylized stone carvings. These chunks of stone portrayed the gods. After you look closely, you can observe that some of them have stylized mouths, noses, and eyes.
• This city was protected by a wall that was 3 kilometers long, had three to five gates, and was fortified with substantial buttresses and numerous towers. Take a stroll around this wall to admire the intricate carvings and inscriptions.
• Go abseiling on a magnificent mountain landscape. It is for both experienced and first-time climbers.
• Go on a 30-min helicopter tour to view the monuments from above.