Archaeological sites in Hegra

Nabataean Heritage

Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, served as the southern capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. This archaeological complex contains over 100 well-preserved monumental tombs dating from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD. The site showcases a unique blend of Nabataean, Roman, and Hellenistic architectural styles, featuring intricate rock-cut facades, decorative motifs, and ancient inscriptions carved directly into the sandstone outcrops of the Al-Ula desert.

Richard.hargas / CC BY-SA 4.0

Al-Hijr Archaeological Site (Madâin Sâlih)

Hegra, also known as Mada’in Salih, is an archaeological site located in the area of Al-'Ula within Medina Province in the Hejaz region,…

Gaius Cornelius / Public domain

Qasrj Al Fareed

Hegra, also known as Mada’in Salih, is an archaeological site located in the area of al-'Ula within Medina Province in the Hejaz, Saudi…

Qasr Assanea

One of the first monumental tombs encountered at the site, featuring a facade with two rows of crenellations and proto-Ionic columns.

Al Khuraimat

A cluster of approximately 20 well-preserved tombs notable for their intricate architectural details, including carvings of eagles, rosettes, and mythical figures.

Madain Salih

The central residential area and ancient city ruins of Hegra, containing archaeological remains of mud-brick houses, defensive walls, and water management systems.

Diwan of Jabal Athlab

A large, rectangular chamber carved into the rock face, historically used as a triclinium for sacred banquets and political meetings by Nabataean elites.

Tripomatic User / CC-BY-SA

Qasr Albint Group

Known as the 'Palace of the Daughter,' this cluster features some of Hegra’s most sophisticated architectural facades and detailed inscriptions identifying the high-status families buried here.