Najran's Rock Art: A Window into Ancient Civilizations

Najran Region is a treasure trove of rock carvings and ancient Arabic inscriptions that offer a glimpse into the lives and development of its ancient inhabitants.
The UNESCO-inscribed Hima Cultural Area is a vast outdoor museum featuring numerous rock carvings. Almost every mountain in the region boasts multiple inscriptions or Ancient South Arabian and Thamudic scripts.
Dr. Salem Bin Tairan, professor of Semitic languages, ancient writings, and archaeology at King Saud University, highlighted the region's rich archaeological heritage. He noted that the rock art depicts various subjects, including humans, camels, horses, ibex, ostriches, cows, predatory animals, hunting scenes, and battles. These carvings provide valuable insights into clothing, tools, weapons, and domesticated animals of the time.
According to Bin Tairan, archaeological surveys in Najran have uncovered a vast number of archaeological sites with diverse rock art examples, including tribal signs, Thamudic, Sabaean, Himyarite, and Islamic inscriptions. Many of these inscriptions date back to the Neolithic period and even to the Paleolithic period.
Abdullah Al-Suqour, tour guide and member of the Najran Tourist Club, emphasized the significance of these rock carvings as historical records and tourist attractions. He noted the precision and artistry of the engravings, often accompanied by the artist's signature or prayers.
Al-Suqour urged everyone to cooperate with authorities in preserving and developing these invaluable cultural heritage sites and raising awareness about their importance.