Sanaʽa is Home to Yemen’s Best Architectural Gems

Image by Rod Waddington /Wikipedia

The capital and the largest city of Yemen, Sanaʽa deserves a spot on your bucket list for its breathtaking architecture alone. It’s home to countless architectural gems that have been around for decades or even centuries, and here are some of its most magnificent buildings.

Dar al-Hajar

Historic tower houses, built with concrete blocks and decorated with stone veneers, are scattered all across Sanaʽa. One of the best examples of this style of architecture is the former royal palace Dar al-Hajar, known by the nicknames “Stone House” and “Rock Palace”, which now serves as a museum.

Bab AL-Yemen

Another marvel of Yemen’s architecture, Bab AL-Yemen aka the Gate of Yemen has been around since the 17th century. The ancient fortification walls welcome visitors to the city, offering the first glance at high towering houses that the architectural landscape of Sanaʽa is known for.

Al Saleh Mosque

Al Saleh Mosque has only been around since 2008, but that didn’t stop it from becoming one of Yemen’s most recognizable landmarks. Its architectural style is characterized by ornate domes, stained glass windows, and intricate patterns on its walls. This is currently the largest mosque in Yemen with a capacity of 44,000 and it’s open to non-Muslims.