Aseer’s Al-Yanfeh Archaeological Village Merges 1,400 Years Of History With Contemporary Arts

The archaeological village of Al-Yanfeh in the Aseer region has transformed into a vibrant centre for contemporary arts. This change blends its 1,400-year-old history with modern artistic expression. Restoration efforts over the last two years have played a significant role in this transformation.

Located about 40 km southwest of Abha city, Al-Yanfeh covers over 121,000 square meters. Its strategic position near other tourist spots and King Khalid University enhances its appeal. The Aseer Municipality's development initiatives have turned it into a popular cultural and tourist destination.

The village's architecture is distinctive, with buildings terraced into the mountainside overlooking agricultural land. This area is irrigated by more than 70 wells, including seven carved from rock. Visitors can witness local expertise in rock carving through approximately 50 circular graves used for grain storage.

Ali Abu Alwa from the Saudi Heritage Preservation Society emphasised Al-Yanfeh's importance as a national tourist spot. He highlighted its ancient cultural and heritage elements, such as unique houses and water channels.

Al-Yanfeh comprises 400 historic houses spread across 16 neighbourhoods and six historical mosques. Among these is an old mosque built in 105 AH. The village's red sandstone mountain, noted for its porous nature, facilitated well digging, according to Ali Al-Ghathimi, who supervises the village development project.

Sitting at an altitude of 2,600 meters above sea level, Al-Yanfeh benefits from a moderate climate influenced by monsoon winds. It experiences two rainy seasons annually.

Recent Development Efforts

The Aseer Municipality's recent projects included rehabilitating passages and squares using stone cladding. They also installed period-appropriate lighting and made agricultural improvements. A natural wood drainage system was set up to manage rainwater effectively.

Al-Ghathimi also mentioned the village's 36 ancient passages built under buildings to connect different neighbourhoods. These efforts aim to preserve the historical essence while enhancing accessibility and visitor experience.

Al-Yanfeh stands as a testament to blending history with modernity, offering visitors a glimpse into both its rich past and vibrant present.

With inputs from SPA