Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Location
About
The Cisterns of Tawila in Aden, Yemen, are a series of ancient water management structures carved from volcanic rock. Originally constructed to collect rainwater and protect the city from flooding, the cisterns are believed to have been built possibly by the Himyarites between 115 BCE and 525 CE. Over time, they became a significant feature of Aden, as indicated by Islamic manuscripts from the 7th century CE. The Rasulid dynasty restored the cisterns in the 13th to 15th centuries CE, acknowledging their importance. With the British colonial occupation in the 19th century, the cisterns underwent significant remodeling, transforming them into the larger structures seen today. Despite modern alterations, these cisterns remain an important archaeological site, highlighting ancient water management practices and the historical evolution of Aden.
Gallery
Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Cisterns of Tawila



Archaeological Features
Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Water Management Features
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history
Plan Your Visit
Details
- Country
- Yemen
- Source
- Wikipedia
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