Exploring The Fire Forts: Tracing The Volcanic History Of Saudi Arabia

The "Fire Forts," known locally in Saudi Arabia as Harrat, are significant markers of the country's historical depth. These volcanic formations offer insights into the civilizational progress of ancient inhabitants, shedding light on their culture, customs, and traditions. They serve as natural archaeological records that bridge the past with the present.

Dr. Hammad Al-Ruwaili, a Professor of History and Archaeology, explained that Saudi Arabia's volcanic history dates back around 30 million years. He noted that these volcanoes formed in two stages: the first during the eruption of basalt lava and the formation of the Red Sea, and the second about 10 million years ago with volcanic activity in the Arabian Peninsula.

Harrat Rahat is identified as the largest volcano by area, followed by Harrat Khaybar, Harrat al-Hurrah, and Harrat Nawasif. These formations are scattered across regions such as Makkah, Northern Borders, Asir, Hail, Al-Baha, Tabuk, and Al-Jawf. The Black Harrats are particularly concentrated north of Taif in areas like Hafar Kashab, Turbah, Al-Khurma, and Al-Muwayh.

Harrat Hafar Kishb is notable for containing Al-Wabah crater, also known as the "alluvial quarry." This crater is Saudi Arabia's deepest volcanic crater with a diameter exceeding 2 km and a depth of 220 meters. It has become a popular tourist destination for international and local visitors.

The Black Earth region offers a unique geography with caves, hills, mountains, plateaus, valleys, and plains. These features have witnessed historical events and hold cultural significance. The area breathes life into stories told by scientists, historians, intellectuals, and storytellers.

Volcanoes in Arabic are referred to by various names including "fire forts" or locally as Al-Harrat or Al-Harrah due to their black volcanic stones. Different types of volcanoes exist such as volcanic domes, scoria stones, shield volcanoes, and volcanic craters.

Tourism and Development

SPA photographers documented key landmarks where populations settled on solid lava fields. Beneath these fields lie valleys and watercourses that nurture rare aromatic medicinal plants. The diverse geographical formations here connect various areas imbued with historical and archaeological significance.

Hafr Kashab was named after Mount Kashab located about 260 kilometers northeast of Taif Governorate. It is visible from Riyadh Road after passing Al-Muwayh. The area consists mainly of scattered black stones mixed with soil known locally as "the bottoms."

The harsh desert lies east of Hafar Kashab making travel difficult or nearly impossible on foot. Despite this challenge, Harrat Hafar Kashab has become an important pillar for tourism and development in the region.

The Black Harrats reveal much about ancient civilizations that thrived on the Arabian Peninsula. They enjoyed its rich land while coexisting with its unique geographical features which continue to attract interest today.

The historical depth provided by these volcanic formations continues to be a source of fascination for scientists and tourists alike.

With inputs from SPA