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Hegra Necropolis

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description Hegra Necropolis Overview

Hegra Necropolis, also known as Mada'in Salih, is an archaeological site in AlUla Province, Saudi Arabia, containing 111 monumental Nabataean tombs carved into sandstone outcrops. The tombs date primarily to the 1st century CE and feature elaborately carved facades, with many bearing inscriptions naming their builders and patrons. In 2008 it became the first property in Saudi Arabia to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

help Hegra Necropolis FAQ

How many tombs are located at the Hegra Necropolis?

The archaeological site contains exactly 111 monumental Nabataean tombs carved directly into sandstone outcrops. The majority of these tombs date back to the 1st century CE and feature intricately carved facades.

Where is the Hegra Necropolis located?

The site, also known as Mada'in Salih, is located in AlUla Province in northwestern Saudi Arabia. It was the southernmost major settlement of the Nabataean Kingdom, serving as a vital trading hub second only to their capital city of Petra in Jordan.

What makes Hegra Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage site?

Hegra was officially inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008, making it the first site in Saudi Arabia to receive the designation. It earned this status due to its exceptionally well-preserved Nabataean architecture and the extensive Aramaic inscriptions found on the tomb facades.

Are non-Muslims allowed to visit the Hegra Necropolis?

Yes, unlike some religious sites in Saudi Arabia, Hegra is a purely archaeological and historical site open to tourists of all faiths. The Saudi government actively promotes the site as part of its Vision 2030 initiative to boost international tourism to the AlUla region.

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