Gallery

The Archaeological Site of Carthage

The archaeological site of Carthage, located in Tunisia, was once a powerful city-state and a major rival to Rome in the ancient Mediterranean. Founded by Phoenician settlers in the 9th century BC, Carthage became renowned for its maritime prowess, commerce, and unique culture. Key features of the site include the remains of the Punic ports, the amphitheater, and the intricate cisterns. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979, Carthage is significant for its historical and cultural impact, showcasing the rich legacy of the Phoenicians and the enduring influence of this ancient civilization on the Mediterranean region

The cultural sites of Al-Ain

The cultural sites of Al-Ain, located in the United Arab Emirates, encompass several significant archaeological and historical areas, including Jebel Hafit, Hili, Bidaa Bint Saud, and the Oases. Jebel Hafit is known for its ancient tombs dating back to the Bronze Age, while the Hili Archaeological Park features remnants of a prehistoric settlement and a complex of burial mounds. Bidaa Bint Saud includes evidence of ancient agricultural practices, and the Oases areas have been vital for sustaining life in the desert for centuries. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2011, these sites reflect the rich cultural heritage and historical significance of Al-Ain, showcasing the development of human settlement and agricultural practices in a challenging environment

The Hima Cultural Area

The Hima Cultural Area, located in Saudi Arabia, is a historical site known for its rich rock art and archaeological significance. Dating back to prehistoric times, it features numerous petroglyphs and inscriptions that depict scenes of hunting, animals, and daily life, reflecting the culture and practices of ancient societies in the region. The site also includes ancient water management systems and evidence of early human settlement. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021, the Hima Cultural Area highlights the importance of the Arabian Peninsula’s history and its role in the development of human civilization, showcasing the region’s cultural and environmental heritage

The historic city of Meknes

The historic city of Meknes, located in Morocco, was founded in the 11th century and became one of the imperial cities of the country. It flourished under the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, who transformed it into a grand capital with impressive palaces, gardens, and monumental gates. Notable sites include the Bab Mansour gate, the Royal Palace, and the mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996, Meknes reflects a rich blend of architectural styles and cultural influences, showcasing its significance in Moroccan history and its role as a center of power and culture

Ancient Thebes with Necropolis

Ancient Thebes, located in modern-day Luxor, Egypt, was a prominent city during the New Kingdom period, serving as a capital and a religious center. Its necropolis, which includes the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens, is renowned for its elaborate tombs and burial sites of pharaohs and nobility. The site is famous for the intricate wall paintings and inscriptions that provide insights into ancient Egyptian beliefs and afterlife practices. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979, the ancient city and its necropolis are key to understanding Egypt’s rich history and cultural heritage

The Old City of Sana’a

The Old City of Sana’a, located in Yemen, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its unique architectural heritage and rich history. Founded over 2,500 years ago, it features a distinctive blend of Islamic and pre-Islamic architecture, characterized by its multi-story tower houses, intricate woodwork, and vibrant decorations. The city is home to numerous mosques, souks, and historical sites, including the Great Mosque of Sana’a, one of the oldest mosques in the Arabian Peninsula. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986, the Old City of Sana’a represents the cultural and historical significance of Yemen, showcasing its role as a center of trade, religion, and architecture in the region

Petra

Petra, located in Jordan, is an ancient city renowned for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system. Established as early as the 5th century BC, it served as a major trading hub in the Nabataean Kingdom. The most iconic structure, Al-Khazneh (the Treasury), is carved into rose-red cliffs, showcasing the remarkable artistic and engineering skills of its builders. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985, Petra is often referred to as the “Rose City” due to its stunning sandstone formations and remains a symbol of Jordan’s rich cultural heritage and history

The Samarra Archaeological Site

The Samarra archaeological site, located in Iraq, was a major city during the Abbasid Caliphate from the 8th to 10th centuries. It is renowned for its unique architectural features, including the Great Mosque with its iconic spiral minaret, known as the Malwiya Tower. The site showcases advanced urban planning and a rich cultural heritage that influenced Islamic architecture. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007, Samarra offers valuable insights into the political, religious, and artistic developments of the period, highlighting its significance in the history of the Islamic world

Dilmun Burial Mounds

The Dilmun burial mounds in Bahrain date back to around 3000 BC and consist of thousands of burial sites reflecting the beliefs and practices of the ancient Dilmun civilization. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2019, these mounds provide valuable insights into the social structure and rituals of early civilizations in the Arabian Gulf

Al-Zubarah Archaeological Site

The Al-Zubarah Archaeological Site, located in Qatar, is a significant historical site that dates back to the 18th century. It was once a thriving pearling and trading town and is known for its well-preserved ruins, including the remains of houses, mosques, and defensive walls. The site reflects the architectural and cultural influences of the time, showcasing the prosperity of the region due to its strategic location along trade routes. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2013, Al-Zubarah provides valuable insights into the history of Qatar and the Gulf region, highlighting its importance in trade and maritime activities