Al-Baha's Historic Stone Houses Attract Tourists, Showcase Traditional Architecture

Al-Baha, August 02, 2025, SPA -- Al-Baha Region is home to numerous historic villages with ancient stone houses built from local rock, showcasing a unique model of traditional southern architecture and reflecting human adaptability to the mountainous environment.
   Known for their durability, the houses are designed to withstand climatic conditions, with thick walls providing thermal insulation, roofs made from juniper and sidr wood, and small windows helping to maintain moderate temperatures year-round.
   Villages such as Thee Ain and Al-Mousa still feature these buildings, which have become popular tourist landmarks.
   According to Mohammed Al-Zahrani, a heritage village supervisor in Al-Baha, these stone houses are more than just homes; they represent a "spatial and cultural memory" of the local community. Their walls hold stories of past social and economic life and highlight the creativity involved in using natural materials to suit the region’s terrain and climate.
   Al-Zahrani emphasized the importance of preserving and restoring these buildings to maintain their architectural identity. He noted that such efforts support tourism and inspire contemporary architects to incorporate traditional design elements into modern projects.