Alqan Heritage Village: A Window into Saudi Arabia's Past
Located near Haql city, northwest of Tabuk, Alqan Heritage Village is one of Saudi Arabia's most historic and scenic heritage sites.
JEDDAH: Situated near Haql city, in the northwest region of Tabuk, lies Alqan Heritage Village.
Known as "The Snow City," it attracts visitors during winter months when snow blankets the area.
The village offers a glimpse into traditional Saudi life through its sandstone-built homes that reflect regional architectural styles and techniques, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.
Located approximately 170 km from Tabuk city, Alqan is surrounded by mountains and red dunes, creating an impressive natural backdrop.
Established in 1934 under King Abdulaziz's order, the village comprises 20 houses constructed from red stone and mud, with palm trunks and fronds used for roofs.
Initially serving as residences for the region's first government employees and public offices, these buildings are now protected and officially registered in the National Register of Architectural Heritage by the Heritage Commission.
The commission is dedicated to documenting, protecting, and digitizing historic sites across Saudi Arabia.
Adjacent to Alqan is the 1965-built customs checkpoint and several historical wells that have provided water for local communities.
One well, known as "Abu Al-Alq," has been suggested to be the source of the village's name.
Another theory attributes it to particles found in the well water.
The village was strategically situated on a rocky hill by early settlers who considered wind direction, rainfall, and privacy in their planning.
This thoughtful design showcases their understanding of desert living conditions.
Alqan is renowned for its rare snowfall, occurring only in most parts of Saudi Arabia during significant winter events such as those recorded in 1945 and 1965.
These snowstorms contributed to the village's reputation as a winter retreat.
Known as "The Snow City," it attracts visitors during winter months when snow blankets the area.
The village offers a glimpse into traditional Saudi life through its sandstone-built homes that reflect regional architectural styles and techniques, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.
Located approximately 170 km from Tabuk city, Alqan is surrounded by mountains and red dunes, creating an impressive natural backdrop.
Established in 1934 under King Abdulaziz's order, the village comprises 20 houses constructed from red stone and mud, with palm trunks and fronds used for roofs.
Initially serving as residences for the region's first government employees and public offices, these buildings are now protected and officially registered in the National Register of Architectural Heritage by the Heritage Commission.
The commission is dedicated to documenting, protecting, and digitizing historic sites across Saudi Arabia.
Adjacent to Alqan is the 1965-built customs checkpoint and several historical wells that have provided water for local communities.
One well, known as "Abu Al-Alq," has been suggested to be the source of the village's name.
Another theory attributes it to particles found in the well water.
The village was strategically situated on a rocky hill by early settlers who considered wind direction, rainfall, and privacy in their planning.
This thoughtful design showcases their understanding of desert living conditions.
Alqan is renowned for its rare snowfall, occurring only in most parts of Saudi Arabia during significant winter events such as those recorded in 1945 and 1965.
These snowstorms contributed to the village's reputation as a winter retreat.
