Khaybar, Ancient oasis settlement in Khaybar governorate, Saudi Arabia
Khaybar is a settlement in the governorate of the same name in northwest Saudi Arabia, surrounded by desert landscape and volcanic rock formations. Natural springs still feed gardens and fields around the town, which sits among rugged hills.
Archaeologists found remains of a fortification system built around 4000 years ago that enclosed much of the oasis. The structure is among the oldest known defensive works in this part of the Arabian Peninsula.
The oasis carries a name from pre-Islamic times and still shows traces of centuries of settlement activity in the desert. Palm groves and fields continue to follow the old irrigation channels that bring spring water to the cultivated plots.
The excavation sites lie outside the modern town and are best reached by vehicle. A visit works well in the morning when the heat is still manageable and the light brings out the rock landscape clearly.
Excavations uncovered dozens of towers along the old wall, which can still be traced for several kilometers. The towers stood at regular intervals and reinforced the defense of the oasis over a long stretch.
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