Phantom of the Ancient City: Exploring the Mysterious Time of At-Turaif Heritage

Located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, At-Turaif Heritage is an ancient city with a rich history and unique architectural style. It was the birthplace of the first Saudi state and is recognized as a World Heritage Site. Stepping into At-Turaif is like walking into a time tunnel. The mud-brick buildings and narrow alleys preserve the early appearance of Saudi Arabia. The palaces and fortifications within the ancient city bear witness to the glory of the former empire. Every step resonates with the weight of history. With a guide, we explored every corner of the ancient city. Our first stop was Al-Saud Palace, a magnificent palace that once served as the residence of the Saudi royal family. The interior of the palace is lavishly decorated, showcasing the royal lifestyle of the time. Next, we visited the Diriyah Museum, which houses many precious artifacts that tell the story of early Saudi history and culture. Walking through the streets of the ancient city, we encountered exquisite stone carvings and murals, masterpieces of traditional Saudi craftsmanship. The local residents warmly introduced us to the customs and traditions of the ancient city, making it come alive with their stories. At sunset, we arrived at a viewpoint overlooking the entire ancient city. The afterglow of the setting sun bathed the mud-brick buildings in a golden hue, making the whole city look exceptionally magnificent. Such a beautiful scene made us reluctant to leave. This trip to At-Turaif Heritage not only allowed me to witness the splendor of Saudi history but also to experience the hospitality of the local people. It was a journey filled with knowledge and surprises, forever etched in my heart.