Historical Masterpieces in Yemen

Yemen is located in Southwest Asia, having its borders with Saudi Arabia and Oman. The official language is Arabic and the currency of the country is Yemeni Riyal. The Capital and the most populous city of Yemen is Sanaa.

Yemen is one of the historical and oldest centers of civilization in the Middle East.  It has witnessed rise and fall of countless civilizations. Yemeni culture is somehow influenced by the ancient civilization of Sheba (Queen Saba). There is a saying that once there was a throne of Ancient Queen Sheba (who is also known as Queen Saba) in modern day’s Yemen. Apart from that people also claim that there are hundreds of ancient graves discovered in Al-Mahwit, The city of Sanaa in Western Yemen which give us an opportunity to explore even more.

Christianity entered Yemen in 4^th century followed by Judaism and Paganism. Islam arrived in Yemen in 7^th century. Yemeni architecture is one of the most fascinating attractions for the visitors who are visiting Yemen for the first time.

THE OLD CITY OF SANAA:

The city of Sanaa carries the long history over 2500 years. After the arrival of Islam in 7^th century, this city became major Centre of religious and political heritage. 600 houses, 14 hammams and 103 Mosques and multi storied buildings were built.

The glimpse of those flourishing decades can still be seen through the streets of old city of Sanaa. Al Saleh Mosque is the largest Mosque in the old city.

The Old city of Sanaa is also listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its distinctive architecture.

THE OLD CITY OF ZABID: 

The old city of Zabid is one of the oldest cities in Yemen and it was also capital of Yemen back in 13^th century till 15^th century. This honorable city is located in the western coastal plain in Yemen.

The city also played a significant role in entire Arab world and Muslim world during 13^th century because of the Islamic University located in the city. This city is also listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

THE GREAT MOSQUE OF ZABID:

Great mosque of zabid is also known as Al-Asha’ir Mosque جامع الأشاعر is the historical Mosque in the historical city of Zabid. This honorable historical Mosque is situated near the Zubaid Market which also comes under the UNESCO World Heritage Site partially. The foundation of this great historical Mosque was kept by The Great Sahabi-e-Rasool  (ﷺ) Abu Musa Al-Ash’ari One of the Companions of Holy Prophet (ﷺ) in 629 AD (8^th Hijra, according to the Islamic calendar).

This Mosque is considered as one of the oldest few Mosques of all time. This historical mosque went through the renovation time to time but the most significant renovation was done back in 1486 during the reign of Sultan Al-Mansoor Abdul Wahab bin Dawood. Since then the shape of the Mosque is as it as till the present time.

ACCORDING TO THE AUTHOR MUJAHID HADAD SALEM FROM YEMEN:

THE HISTORICAL CITY OF THULA:

The ancient city of Thula is one of the historical cities of Yemen. This beautiful also comes under the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is a saying that the roots and history of this city connects to the period of Himyarite era. This beautiful city contains historical houses even today. 

FAMOUS FOOD IN YEMEN:

MANDI:

Mandi is one of the most famous and national dish of Yemen. It is prepared by the meat of lamb or chicken along with basmati rice and a mixture of various spices. Mandi is cooked in Tandoor.

KABSA:

Many people get confused between Mandi and Kabsa as both look similar but they both are different dishes. Mandi has yellowish rice while Kabsa has brownish rice because of the meat broth containing tomato paste and chilies. Kabsa is prepared in different layers but in the same dish on the stove.

Note: We are thankful to the following for guide in our research.

https://www.joaoleitao.com/visit-yemen/

https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/unesco-world-heritage-sites-in-yemen.html

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g294014-Activities-Yemen.html

https://www.tasteatlas.com/most-popular-dishes-in-yemen