Residents of Al-Aroud village, in the Asir Region, driven by nostalgia and a desire to reconnect with their roots, are reclaiming a piece of their ancestral homeland after a 50-year absence.
Fuelled by government initiatives and their own emotional ties, they’ve partnered with the local municipality to transform a section of the village into a bustling hub for community gatherings.
The village comprises around than 150 houses, including three palaces and two historical fortresses, as well as a recently restored old mosque. Nestled amidst the homes, some dating back 300 years, the revitalised space serves as a meeting point for weekly social gatherings and recreational activities.
These include lively discussions on community issues, cultural festivities, and a rediscovery of old customs.
“Many of the houses are weathered but their spirit remains strong,” says Abdulhadi Al-Shehri, a resident. “It is our emotional attachment to this place that brought us together to revive it. We started with a gathering site, a place to connect during holidays and vacations, to share stories, and practice our cherished folk traditions.”
This grassroots initiative marks the starting point for a broader restoration project relying on both community resources and municipal support.
Asir Region is home to over 4,300 heritage villages, some of which are over 500 years old. It boasts 651 archaeological sites registered in the national heritage list, containing stones, inscriptions, and drawings dating back to pre-Islamic times.
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