Rijal Almaa governorate, Administrative division in southwest Saudi Arabia
This administrative region in southwest Saudi Arabia spreads across mountainous terrain with stone buildings built into hillsides at various heights. The structures overlook the Kussan Valley and have views toward the Red Sea coast.
The region developed as a trade hub linking Yemen and the Levant to the holy cities further north, which lasted for over nine centuries. Its mountain location and passes made it a natural meeting point for merchant caravans.
Local residents practice traditional geometric wall painting on their homes, creating vibrant patterns that change with the light throughout the day. This art form remains an active part of how families decorate and personalize their living spaces.
The region is easiest to reach via Abha airport, from which roads connect southward through the mountains. Visitors should prepare for steep paths and changing elevations since the terrain has significant slopes.
Many of the older houses rise several stories tall with wooden window frames painted in different colors that add depth to the stone walls. The window styles change from house to house, reflecting choices made by individual families over time.
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