Najran: Situated on the northern bank of Wadi Najran, the historic village of Al Manjam is a prominent example of the region's mud architecture and a cultural treasure that reflects its rich history and splendor.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the village features seven towering mud palaces, each four to seven stories high, housing various facilities, including a mosque, horse stables, gathering rooms (majlises), grain storage areas, and an upper balcony. These landmarks are enclosed by a massive mud wall with three main gates that guard their historical legacy.
Rashid Al Manjam, the village's supervisor, stated that Al Manjam village has existed for over three centuries and has undergone restoration in the past two decades, transforming it into a vibrant heritage destination for visitors and history enthusiasts.
The buildings exhibit unique architectural creativity, with names and designs reflecting their purpose. Al-Mashoulq building features sloping angles and a low roof, while Al-Murabba and Al-Qasaba are circular, narrowing towards the top and typically constructed in corners for defense. Al-Muqaddam building, with three stories and an inner courtyard, serves as a majlis and storage area. Constructed from local materials such as mud, palm fronds, tamarisk and sidr wood, these structures illustrate a harmonious relationship with the environment.
Al Manjam emphasized that ongoing preservation efforts align with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to revive national heritage, empower local communities, and transform heritage villages into vibrant tourist destinations, thereby strengthening cultural identity and contributing to the national economy.