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Saudi Arabia

Bir Hima Rock Petroglyphs and Inscriptions

Ancient petroglyph site with inscriptions.

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

About

The Bir Hima site in southwest Saudi Arabia is a significant archaeological location known for its extensive rock art and inscriptions. Spanning a wide chronological range from the Palaeolithic to the Iron Age, this site features numerous petroglyphs and inscriptions etched into the sandstone. The rock art, which includes depictions of daggers, swords, bows, and animals, reflects a rich cultural tapestry and spiritual animism. The site also features important inscriptions from the 6th century CE by Dhu Nuwas, a Himyarite King. Designated as part of the Hima Cultural Area UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021, Bir Hima offers invaluable insight into the prehistoric and historic occupation of the region, highlighting its historical significance and the diversity of ancient scripts found there.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Bir Hima Rock Petroglyphs and Inscriptions

FileHima_Cultural_Area_Overview2.jpg
FileInscription_of_Shasaa1.jpg
FileInscription_of_The_Dancers7.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Artistic and Decorative Features

PetroglyphsInscriptions

Environmental and Natural Features

Rock Shelters

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Saudi Arabia
Source
Wikipedia