Dimasheq – News
Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission has revived the rich historical legacy of Al-Mahd Governorate in the Madinah region through new discoveries documenting sites that tell the stories of civilizations that passed through the area thousands of years ago.
The Heritage Commission announced the registration of 172 new archaeological sites, highlighting the historical depth and diversity of Al-Mahd Governorate across successive eras. The announcement came at the conclusion of the second season of archaeological survey work in the governorate, a field operation that resulted in the documentation of 1,774 archaeological finds across several surveyed locations, most notably Al-Suwayriqiyah, Al-Muwayhiyah, Hadhah, Al-Amq, and Al-Sa‘biyah.
These discoveries offer a window into Islamic history, as each inscription and rock carving documents the region’s heritage and contributes to preserving it for future generations. The findings include 461 Islamic inscriptions, 34 Thamudic inscriptions, 1,259 rock art drawings, 11 stone structures, three palaces and archaeological buildings, two historic caravan routes, and four wells.
Among the most significant discoveries are rock inscriptions bearing the name of Umar ibn Al-Khattab, alongside verses of Arabic poetry engraved on rocks that have withstood the passage of time. These findings enhance the historical significance of the site and place it among locations of outstanding cultural and civilizational importance.
The results reflect the deep-rooted human presence in Al-Mahd throughout various historical periods, from pre-Islamic times to the early Islamic era. They also represent a valuable addition to the archaeological documentation efforts led by the Heritage Commission across the Kingdom.
The Heritage Commission affirmed its commitment to continuing archaeological survey and documentation programs throughout Saudi Arabia as part of its mission to protect the national heritage and highlight its cultural and historical value. These efforts support the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to preserve the Kingdom’s cultural heritage, enrich cultural content, and reinforce Saudi Arabia’s position as a homeland of human heritage extending across the ages.
