The Rescue Restoration Work for
Soudah Peaks' Heritage Sites
About the project
Soudah Development (SD) has undertaken a significant initiative to deliver emergency repairs four priority heritage sites within its boundaries. These sites were selected for urgent restoration due to their critical condition and risk of collapse, particularly during the rainy seasons. The project aims to safeguard these historic buildings through structural reinforcement and rescue operations, ensuring their protection while maintaining their original authenticity and identity.
The commitment of Soudah Development is evident in our approach, which includes employing traditional materials and techniques to restore the buildings to their original state. By assembling a team of highly experienced and qualified professionals, SD is dedicated to preserving the cultural and historical value of these sites, reflecting their dedication to both heritage conservation and the community.
The four heritage sites are as follows:
BORJ
TIHAN
Sheikh
House
The Bee
House
Alhamidyyiah Duct
(Hamlet)
BORJ TIHAN
Located in the Red Rock development area. It stands as a remarkable remnant of a circular fortification perched on a hilltop, offering expansive and commanding views of the landscape. This ancient structure served as both a watchtower and a defensive tower, strategically built from stone at a high elevation. The tower features a circular base with an external diameter of approximately 8.5 meters and an internal diameter of 6 meters. It is distinguished by a series of at least 10 slot openings, designed to face the road and the eastern horizon.
This fortification exemplifies traditional defensive architecture that has been utilized for centuries in the region. The use of durable stone construction and strategic design elements reflect inherited techniques that have long been employed to enhance security and surveillance. Borj Tihan not only highlights the advanced defensive strategies of its time but also serves as a testament to the enduring craftsmanship and architectural heritage of the area.
The other 3 sites are located in the “Jareen” development zone in Wadi Thah.
Wadi Thah is located in the lower areas of Soudah. It is a place of high cultural significance, including archaeological, historical architectural and intangible heritage assets.
SHEIKH HOUSE
The Sheikh House group, set in a stunning location, features two main buildings constructed from stone, timber, and mud. Historically, it served as a courthouse and the Sheikh’s residence, acting as a government center for Wadi Thah before the 3rd Saudi State was established in 1902. During the 19th century and earlier, when the Asir region was not fully under Ottoman control, the Sheikh House was crucial for local justice and handling zakah (charitable donations) in kind, including livestock and produce. The site also has ties to tribal warfare and the production of coffee and honey. Nearby are ancient tombs dating back 5,400 years from the Sabba tribal civilization, known for Sun worship.
THE BEE HOUSE
Bee House is a captivating site composed of a unique building nestled within a terraced agricultural landscape. This location offers a valuable opportunity to explore the history, culture, and science of beekeeping in the Aseer Region. The building is a specialized agricultural tower for beekeeping, a fortified house contributing to the site's historical and cultural significance.
ALHAMIDYYIAH DUCT
(HAMLET)
Alhamidyyiah Duct is a structure positioned amidst agricultural terraces, Alhamidyyiah Duct features an eastern-facing duct and intricate quartz work above its door. Its elevation is unusually asymmetrical, with two quartz panels to the north and a larger panel to the south. The tower includes a half-balcony, making the duct appear less prominent. Alhamidyyiah Duct holds significant value for local families with ancestral ties to the hamlet, as well as for the broader community, including nearby residents and farmers.
