Sana'a
The Old City of Sana'a presents a unique homogeneous architectural ensemble. The design and detail of each of the houses combine into an integral beauty.
Surrounded by ancient clay walls which stand 6–9 metres (20–30 ft) high, the old city boasts over 100 mosques, 12 hammams (baths), and 6,500 houses. Many of the houses resemble ancient skyscrapers, reaching several stories high and topped with flat roofs. They are decorated with elaborate friezes and intricately carved frames and stained glass windows.
Sana’a is also connected to the spread of Islam in the early years of the Hegira (from 628). The majestic seventh century Jami' al-Kabir (Great Mosque) is one of the oldest in the Muslim world. The Bâb al-Yaman (Yemen Gate) is an iconized entry point through the city walls and is over 700 years old.
Map of Sana'a
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Solivagant
UK -San’a is a city to wander round without a map and without any particular objectives other than soaking up the atmosphere. “Dive in” at the Bab Al-Yaman and just see where serendipity takes you. Oh, and have plenty of digital cards or film! Because of the narrowness of the alleyways and the height of the buildings it is worth going at different times of day in order to benefit from different positions of the sun. Some buildings will let you in and the views from the top over the city are worthwhile if you can find them/ obtain invitations. You will also get a feel for the enclosed gardens which dot the city but are largely invisible from the outside other than a few palm branches peeping over the walls!
Site Info
- Full Name
- Old City of Sana'a
- Unesco ID
- 385
- Country
- Yemen
- Inscribed
-
1986 - In Danger
- Type
- Cultural
- Criteria
-
4 5 6
- Categories
- Urban landscape - Urban continuity
- Link
- By ID
Site History
2015 In Danger
damage due to armed conflict
1986 Inscribed
Site Links
Unesco Website
Official Website
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The site has 11 connections
Architecture
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