The historical village of Zee Al-Ayn, often referred to as the jewel of Al-Bahah Province, is a place that will take you by surprise. Nestled down the cliffs of the City of Al-Bahah, this village boasts unique features that make it truly enchanting. The most striking aspect is the whiteness of the marble hill on which the village is built, contrasting beautifully with the darker shades of the grandiose Sarawat mountains in the background.
A Village Out of This World
Zee Al-Ayn is not just a village; it’s a journey back in time. The village’s name comes from a water spring that flows continuously from the nearby mountains to several reservoirs, each with its own name. According to local legend, a man once lost his cane in one of the valleys and tracked it to the village, where he enlisted the help of the inhabitants to retrieve it by digging up the spring.
Historical Significance
Dating back about 400 years, Zee Al-Ayn has witnessed significant historical events, including battles between the Ottoman Turks and its inhabitants. The village has been placed on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to its exceptional features. It consists of 49 dwellings, varying from one to four floors, constructed using load-bearing walls (“Medamik”) with thicknesses ranging from 0.7 to 0.9 meters. The structures are roofed with cedar wood, and the big rooms are supported by columns known as “Al-zafer.”
Architectural Marvel
The architecture of Zee Al-Ayn is a testament to traditional building techniques perfectly adapted to the environment. The lower floors serve as reception and living areas, while the upper floors are used for sleeping. Some buildings have stood the test of time, while others are partially run-down or completely demolished. Walking along the stone stairs of the village offers picturesque viewpoints of the traditional houses and a delightful experience that transports you back to the 18th century.
Natural Beauty
To complete the picture-postcard view, a nearby natural spring provides water to a lush oasis surrounding the bottom of the hill. The cool temperature inside the traditional Arabian houses is another striking aspect that visitors can experience. Don’t forget to visit the bottom right of the marble hill to see the natural spring that gave Zee Al-Ayn its name!
Visiting Zee Al-Ayn
For those planning to visit, Zee Al-Ayn is available on Google Maps under “The Ain Ancient Village” and “Dhee Ayn, Marble Village.” A parking area is within walking distance of the village, accessible during opening hours for a small fee. The road down the Sarawat mountains from the city of Al-Bahah offers many spectacular viewpoints along the majestic escarpment, making the journey itself a memorable part of the trip.
Zee Al-Ayn is more than just a historical site; it’s a living testament to the rich cultural heritage and architectural ingenuity of its inhabitants. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply someone looking for a unique travel experience, Zee Al-Ayn is a destination that promises to enchant and inspire.
