Today, I thought I would take advantage of a trip that was offered by recreation services to go to Historical Addir’iyah which is the original home of the Saudi royal family, and served as the capital of the first Saudi dynasty. Addir’iyah is located on the northwestern outskirts of Riyadh. So at 8:30 am on the first day of my weekend, we pulled out of the parking lot en-route to Historical Addir’yah.
We probably drove about 30 minutes before we pulled up into a place where there was a lot of construction going on in a field full of what appeared to be ruins. But later the group found out that this area which is under a development project to restore and rehabilitate it into a cultural tourism site is declared by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) a world heritage site in 2010. Part of the project will include a restoration and renovation of Al-Imam Muhammad bin Saud Mosque, Salwa Palace, a light and sound display, restoration of mud houses and the establishment of the museum of ethnology which will highlight the story of the First Saudi State, to name a few.
We were able to view some of the old palace areas, the bath house and guest house. But most areas were either roped off or filled with construction personnel or equipment. All in all, the trip to Addiri’yah is a must see for those who would like to see the “First Saudi State” in its ancient state. The project completion is slated for 2016. This historical site is definitely a must see for anyone who plans to spend some time in Riyadh.
All the best,
GMarie
Hello,
ReplyDeleteThese are beautiful pics. My name is Darrell and I am a VA Hosp. Civilian Employee in the US, Illinois. My wife and I (along with my cousin and my two boys) family and I were wanting to give Riyadh, Saudi a try. I have worked for the VA for over 18years. It is a blessing finding this blog from you, also with you being African American that is even more a plus because you could provide us a deeper understanding of life there (We being the same). I am wanting to relocate for religious reasons as well, we are Muslim and would like to be around more of the Arabic language/scholars e.t.c. and for my two boys to have the opportunity to attend Islamic schools. I have a job I am applying for that is located in ESKAN village, Riyadh. I would greatly appreciate feedback concerning your living there in Riyadh. Would me and my family being muslim be a problem in the compound? Would we be able to make prayers and so forth? questions like these and many more I would love to ask you, inshallah. Again, we are really enjoying your pictures and insight as to living in the Kingdom.
Marhabbah Darrell! Right off we have two things in common....I am a former employee of the VA before I transitioned to Riyadh and you have applied and I am currently an employee at Eskan Village! Once employment is secured, you and your family will enjoy a memorable experience living in the "Kingdom" Saudi Arabia! Inbox me at gingii_97@ yahoo.com with your questions and comments....thanks for reading! GMarie
DeleteGina, this is another one of those great writing pieces you do and this is very good. Thanks so much for sharing that history with me.
ReplyDeleteI Gina what Great pictures of Arabia, you seemed to be well liked there and your pups are the cutest. I enjoyed reading your story and wish you much continued success. Sincerely Dina Collins
ReplyDeleteThanks cousin Dina! I appreciate the post! Tell everyone in the "Garden State" I said HELLO!!
DeleteLove Gina
Hello Michelle,
ReplyDeleteThanks for reading! Please inbox me at gingii_97@yahoo.com for more detailed info regarding employment and Eskan Village.
GMarie