Beyond Storage: Aseer's Traditional Grain Silos Define a Culture of Cooperation

In the mountains and plains of Aseer, agriculture transcended mere seasonal activity; it was a comprehensive culture embodying cooperation and solidarity. For generations, inhabitants devised unique methods to preserve their grain crops, including wheat, corn, and barley, using ingenious techniques that accounted for the harsh climate and kept food fresh for extended periods.

 Researcher Dr. Ghithan Jrais explains that farmers in each village contributed a portion of their harvest, known as the "tithe," which was allocated to the community's finances and stored in meticulously constructed silos that functioned similarly to modern grain storage facilities.

 These silos, designed to protect grain from heat, humidity, and insects, were secured with multiple locks that required the presence of all chosen trustees to open, safeguarding public funds. The stored tithe was used for social and cooperative purposes, such as assisting those in need, paying off debts, and honoring guests—a true embodiment of the communal spirit.

 In heritage villages like Al Yanfa, southeast of Abha, the legacy remains visible. Centuries ago, villagers carved underground silos more than two meters deep, creating natural grain containers that preserved crops for years. Field accounts confirm that the village was self-sufficient due to this system, which ensured it was ready for emergencies. A notable feature of Al Yanfa's "community house" is a large room beneath the main council chamber containing seven major silos, managed transparently by villagers to meet local needs, especially during drought.

 In the Tihama region of Aseer, particularly in the Ahad Tharban mountain, silos were adapted to the local environment. There, small stone structures built atop solid igneous rocks were used to store corn, barley, and sesame. These structures featured tightly sealed doors and lacked windows, ensuring a dry, preserved environment for centuries.

 These ancient methods represent a rich cultural heritage embodying human ingenuity and adaptation. Whether underground or on mountaintops, these silos were more than storage facilities; they were powerful symbols of social solidarity and sustainable food security.