Taif, October 11, 2024 – Nestled within the rugged granite mountains of the Maysan Governorate in Taif, the villages of Bani Malik, Bani Saad, and Thaqif are a living testament to the region’s unique architectural heritage. These ancient villages, perched on rocky outcrops, are renowned for their skillfully constructed stone houses that harmonize seamlessly with the towering granite peaks surrounding them. The intricate stonework, passed down through generations, reflects the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the people who have called these mountains home for centuries.
Visitors to the Maysan region are often struck by the remarkable similarity between the colors of the houses and the natural stone of the mountains. This blend creates a harmonious aesthetic that feels almost as though the homes have grown out of the landscape itself. Local residents take great pride in their heritage, eagerly sharing stories of their ancestors, traditional crafts, and ancient construction methods. These time-honored techniques include the use of basic tools such as the pickaxe and chisel, which were essential for carving homes and structures directly from the surrounding stone.
Maysan’s villages offer visitors a truly distinctive architectural experience, with houses nestled into the mountainsides and structures adorned with the branches of grapevine, apricot, peach, and almond trees that grow in abundance. The villages are also home to ancient dams, meticulously designed to suit the rocky terrain. Built from granite stones and reinforced with clay, these dams have withstood the test of time, standing as enduring symbols of the past while continuing to serve the region.
The combination of rich cultural heritage, masterful stone construction, and stunning natural beauty makes the villages of Bani Malik, Bani Saad, and Thaqif a captivating destination for those looking to explore the traditional architecture and history of the Taif region. The people of Maysan continue to preserve their heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into a way of life shaped by the mountains and the resilient spirit of their ancestors.
