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Saudi Arabia

Hegra (Mada'in Salih)

Nabataean rock-cut tombs and oasis settlement

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

Location

About

Hegra, also known as Mada'in Salih, is a significant archaeological site located in Saudi Arabia's Al-'Ula region. Predominantly featuring rock-cut tombs from the Nabataean Kingdom, it was the second largest city after Petra. The site's remarkable preservation is attributed to its arid climate and historical neglect, allowing an extensive view into Nabataean life. The settlement includes monumental tombs with intricate façades, a fortified Ottoman structure, and ancient water management systems such as wells and cisterns. Serving as a crucial trade hub on the overland caravan route, it flourished under Nabataean rule before becoming part of the Roman Empire. Recognized as Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra provides invaluable insights into the intersection of multiple ancient cultures and their architectural prowess.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Hegra (Mada'in Salih)

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FileHegra_Al-Ula_Saudi_Arabia.png
FileHegra_Inscription_Marcus_Aurelius.jpg

Archaeological Features

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

Defensive Structures

Fortresses

Water Management Features

WellsCisterns

Burial and Funerary Structures

Tombs

Religious and Ritual Structures

Temples

Artistic and Decorative Features

Inscriptions

Agricultural and Land Use Features

Gardens

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Cities

Transportation and Communication Structures

Pilgrimage Routes

Historical Timeline

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

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Saudi Arabia
Source
Wikipedia