Diriyah
Country: Saudi Arabia
Region: Middle East
Period: 1744-1818
Location: 24.733333°N, 46.575556°E
Description
Diriyah, located on the outskirts of modern Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, was the original home of the Al Saud family and the first capital of the Saudi state. Founded in the 15th century, it became the center of the Emirate of Diriyah in the 18th century, which was a precursor to the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The city is notable for its mud-brick architecture, reflecting the traditional Najdi style.
Modern Remains
Today, Diriyah is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with efforts to preserve and restore the historical mud-brick structures, including the Al-Turaif district, which was once the heart of the Emirate. The area is an important cultural and tourist destination, showcasing the roots of Saudi Arabia’s history and the traditional architecture of the Arabian Peninsula.