Baha’s heritage villages host summer events

The heritage villages of the Baha region, scattered among the Sarawat Mountains, are hosting several events as part of this year’s Baha Summer Festival.

The villages welcome visitors from inside and outside the Kingdom who come to see various aspects of traditional local life, including clothing, food, games, architecture, arts, and handicrafts, as well as photo exhibitions “reflecting the cultural and historical depth of the region,” according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Al-Akhawayn Palace, Al-Mousa Heritage Village, and the Saturday Market in Baljurashi, in addition to the museums in the governorates of the region, are popular tourist destinations.

Al-Akhawayn Palace overlooks the village of Al-Malad, which is home to many old heritage houses. The owner of the Al-Akhawayn Museum in Al-Malad, Mohammed Al-Ghamdi, has launched “several historical and artistic initiatives that introduce the region’s heritage, history and culture, connecting new generations to the ancient folk arts,” the SPA stated.

Al-Ghamdi told the SPA: “The village’s historical aspects have been used to implement a number of old popular initiatives, such as teaching young people the art of performing the southern Ardah and folk dances, as well as showcasing old costumes and weapons.”

Al-Ghamdi added that Al-Malad is “a civilizational legacy and a unique urban heritage,” home to forts dating back more than 400 years, including the Akhawayn (“Twin”) castle.

The Baha Summer Festival is contributing to the local economy as it includes popular traditional dishes cooked by families from each village.

According to the SPA: “Visitors participate in folk dances and songs and take commemorative photos in the alleyways of these heritage villages.”