Al Hajjara architecture of advanced civilization

Al Hajjara town in Al Bayda Governorate, Yemen

Unique town in Al Bayda Governorate, Yemen – Al Hajjara architecture of advanced civilization

Al Hajjara architecture of advanced civilization
Breathtaking achievement of ancient architecture, the town literally hangs off the cliff face. Undoubtedly unique town, built on a very limited square mileage. Undoubtedly, the early Yemeni town planners did all their best in it. In addition, they paid much attention and huge care to the decorating these towering structures. In particular, all their creative work indicates a sophisticated and advanced civilization. Noteworthy, this very town became the source of the oldest copy of the Qur’an, found in this area.
Besides, the engineering used in the construction of these beautiful domiciles was advanced enough to easily rival that of Europe at the time. Many of the buildings are up to four hundred years old.

Location on the map. Al Hajjara town in Al Bayda Governorate, Yemen

Situated at the heart of Yemen in the Al Bayda Governorate of the country, Al Hajarah boasts one of the most unusually situated structures you will ever see. Meanwhile, the residence of the ruler – Imam Yahya Muhamamd was atop a rocky outcrop. Imam Yahya was famous for stabilizing the north of the country and for his wise attitude towards minorities, particularly Yemenite Jewry.

In order to make his country recognized as independent he made many treaties. And most notable – the Ital-Yemeni Treaty of 1926 which gave Yemen full sovereignty. Noteworthy, the country joined the United Nations in 1948 – a year before his death.

However, the Imam’s residence, grand and ornate contrasts the poverty in which many of the country’s population exist. The country itself is just over half a million square kilometers. Although it is on the Arabian Peninsula many would not think of a country like this having islands. But in fact, Yemen has over two hundred (more of one later).

It is the only republic in the area – and one of eight in total in the Arab World. Unfortunately, around twenty percent of the population live on just over one US dollar a day. It is, then, a poor country, but not one without its advantages.