Old Jeddah, Al Balad, Historical district and archaeological museum in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Old Jeddah, also known as Al Balad, is a historic district with buildings made from coral stones and traditional wooden balconies called Roshan, featuring intricate window designs. The narrow streets show how the architecture was shaped to handle the local climate and create shaded spaces between buildings.
The district was founded in the 7th century and served for centuries as a trading port and gateway for pilgrims heading to Mecca. Its growth was tied to the trade routes that made this location a vital hub in the Islamic world.
Local artisans work in their souks, selling traditional textiles, spices, and regional goods that reflect the neighborhood's long connection to trade routes. These workshops and markets remain active parts of daily life here.
Visit early in the morning to explore the streets while it is still cool and the souks are coming to life. Wear sturdy shoes and light, covered clothing, as the lanes are narrow and uneven and the sun is intense.
The buildings were constructed from coral stones taken from the Red Sea, combined with wooden elements that provide natural cooling without modern equipment. This building method shows how residents adapted their materials to survive the extreme desert heat.
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