Travel
Hegra is located in Al Ula, which can be reached by car from major cities. Al Ula Airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest airport.
History
Hegra, also known as Al-Hijr, was a vital city of the Nabatean Kingdom, serving as a trading post. The rock-cut tombs date back to the first century AD and showcase the architectural brilliance of the Nabateans.
Best Location
The Qasr Al-Farid, known for its distinct architecture, is one of the most notable tombs. The surrounding landscape is also breathtaking, ideal for exploration.
Additional Information
Guided tours are recommended to fully appreciate the site's historical significance. Check for any visitor restrictions or regulations.
The Hegra Archaeological Site (al-Hijr / Madā ͐ in Ṣāliḥ) is the first World Heritage property to be inscribed in Saudi Arabia. Formerly known as Hegra it is the largest conserved site of the civilization of the Nabataeans south of Petra in Jordan. It features well-preserved monumental tombs with decorated facades dating from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD. The site also features some 50 inscriptions of the pre-Nabataean period and some cave drawings. Al-Hijr bears a unique testimony to Nabataean civilization. With its 111 monumental tombs, 94 of which are decorated, and water wells, the site is an outstanding example of the Nabataeans' architectural accomplishment and hydraulic expertise.
The archaeological site of Al-Hijr is a major site of the Nabataean civilisation, in the south of its zone of influence. Its integrity is remarkable and it is well conserved. It includes a major ensemble of tombs and monuments, whose architecture and decorations are directly cut into the sandstone. It bears witness to the encounter between a variety of decorative and architectural influences (Assyrian, Egyptian, Phoenician, Hellenistic), and the epigraphic presence of several ancient languages (Lihyanite, Thamudic, Nabataean, Greek, Latin).
It bears witness to the development of Nabataean agricultural techniques using a large number of artificial wells in rocky ground. The wells are still in use. The ancient city of Hegra/Al-Hijr bears witness to the international caravan trade during late Antiquity.
