Ancient Castles in Sabya Governorate Reflect Architectural Art

The Sabya Governorate in the Jazan region is a treasure trove of archaeological buildings and castles, each with its own unique story. Among these, the Sabya Archaeological Castle stands as a living testament to ancient history, its origins dating back to the early 20th century. The castle, steeped in history, is a must-visit for any history enthusiast or archaeology researcher.

 The ancient castle in Sabya is situated near Sabya Avenue, within King Fahd Park in the governorate. It is part of the present city of Sabya, which offers a view of Wadi Sabya, as seen by visitors hundreds of years ago. Evidence suggests that these buildings date back to the early 14th century.

 The Sabya Archaeological Castle, a marvel of ancient architecture, boasts spacious rooms with high ceilings and thick walls. The walls, adorned with beautiful geometric and floral patterns, are a testament to the skill of the craftsmen who built them. The use of volcanic stone of various sizes and shapes in the construction gives the castle a unique and captivating beauty.

 Local materials such as volcanic stone, bricks, wood, and limestone were used to construct these buildings. Some accounts also suggest that the clay used in making bricks was sourced from the banks of Wadi Sabya. At the same time, volcanic stone was obtained from volcanoes near the city, including Jabal Akwa, located a short distance northeast of Sabya.

 The mosque, situated north of the ancient castle, is another testament to the area's ancient history. It was constructed using the same building materials as the castles and other structures. It was intended for prayer and gatherings of religious leaders, dignitaries, and the people of Sabya. Its mihrab (prayer niche) still stands despite some damage.

 The ancient castle piques the interest of historians as it presents an opportunity to learn more about the architecture and civilization of that era. Some accounts suggest the presence of remains of other buildings in the vicinity of the ancient castle, opening the possibility of conducting archaeological excavations to reveal more secrets about this archaeological site.

 The Kingdom's Heritage Commission is diligently working to preserve the Sabya Archaeological Castle, recognizing its significance as one of the most important archaeological sites in the Jazan region. The commission's measures to protect the buildings from potential risks and its commitment to providing visitors with the opportunity to explore this rich archaeological site instill confidence in the castle's future.