A Historical Glimpse into Turbah’s Heritage

Turbah Governorate, in the Eastern Province of Makkah, is steeped in history, eloquently talked abut by chroniclers, intellectuals, and storytellers. Its landscape, brimming with palm groves, mountains, valleys, plains, hills, and black volcanic fields, bears witness to historical events and is home to enduring landmarks. The region has historical landmarks like forts, palaces, and ancient markets that showcase the skilled craftsmanship of the local people who used traditional materials like mudbricks, palm trunks, and locally sourced wood for construction. Turbah stands out from other provinces due to its sparkling valleys, such as Wadi Kara and Wadi Turabah, which provide fresh water to the region. The valleys meander through bends, gorges, and dams. The narrow and deep course of the valleys widens at a few locations and has agricultural remains, including traditional wells and inscriptions depicting the wildlife that once existed there. The Saudi Press Agency documented scenes near the valley where some fortifications were built, and of which some still remain standing. There are other artifacts that show the past as well, like the ancient grand palace of Hamad bin Abdullah bin Muhi Al-Buqami, which was built on a hill in northern Turabah in 1212 AH. The palace was made of sun-dried mud bricks with roofs made of palm trunks and fronds. It has 43 rooms, including a mosque, a large courtyard with a stable, and storage rooms. The palace is surrounded by a high wall with an eastern gate facing the farms. Turabah governorate is known as one of the eastern provinces of the Makkah region; it reflects the social and cultural life of the area and the province's past economic prosperity. Throughout history, the people of Turabah diversified their livelihoods. Agriculture and water resources were important for their economy. Grazing and livestock breeding also played a role and brought prosperity to the town. Over time, Turabah became a center for economic activities, attracting entrepreneurs from different places due to its strategic location on trade and pilgrimage routes. It became a place that welcomed various cultures and celebrated diversity. Source: Saudi Press Agency