Saudi Archaeological Trove Unearthed: Yanbu Rock Art, Inscriptions Tell Kingdom's Story

Yanbu, Saudi Arabia: The Heritage Authority concludes its highly successful first season of surveying and documenting the extraordinary rock art sites, ancient inscriptions, and Islamic writings in the Yanbu and Al-Ais governorates of Medina. Spearheaded by a team of Saudi experts, this pioneering project aims to unearth scientific and historical evidence, shedding light on the rich cultural heritage of the region.

With a steadfast commitment to excavating and preserving national heritage sites, the Heritage Authority seeks to safeguard historical sites and utilize them as vital cultural and economic resources for the Kingdom. The project's primary objectives include inventorying and documenting archaeological evidence and remains, providing new insights into the cultural depth of Saudi Arabia, and showcasing scientific evidence of the Kingdom's contributions to human civilization.

A key focus of the project is to unveil the cultural and historical sequence of the Yanbu region, establishing the age of settlements and linking them with archaeological data from both the region and the wider Kingdom. Over the course of 30 days, experts conducted extensive archaeological survey work, meticulously documenting 128 sites. These encompassed rock art sites, as well as locations boasting Islamic and ancient inscriptions.

The findings of the survey revealed a treasure trove of historical significance, with a total of 991 Islamic inscriptions, 151 ancient inscriptions, and an astounding 1,367 rock art sites documented. The Heritage Authority is keen to register these remarkable discoveries in the National Antiquities Register. Furthermore, some inscription sites will be considered for inclusion in the initiative to remove visual distortions of archaeological sites, ensuring their preservation and accessibility for future generations.

This season's accomplishments have inspired the Heritage Authority to embark on further surveying and documentation work in the region. Future seasons will target additional candidate sites, expanding our understanding of Saudi Arabia's rich cultural heritage.

As the Heritage Authority continues to contribute to the preservation and promotion of Saudi Arabia's national heritage, these significant findings serve as a testament to the Kingdom's enthralling past and its enduring role in shaping human civilization. The Yanbu project underscores the Kingdom's commitment to exploring and showcasing its historical treasures, cementing its position as a leading custodian of cultural heritage.

Join here for Mediaone Saudi English News Update: https://chat.whatsapp.com/BUpWNfy3OzAFXLuG1A8Sws