Qaryat al-Faw
قرية الفاو | |
 | |
  Shown within Saudi Arabia | |
| Location | Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 19°47′00″N 45°09′00″E / 19.7833°N 45.1500°E |
| Type | Settlement |
| Site notes | |
| Condition | In ruins |
Qaryat Al Faw was the capital of the first Kindah kingdom. It is located about 100 km south of Wadi ad-Dawasir, and about 700 km southwest of Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia. The Al Faw archeological site reveals various features such as residential houses, markets, roads, cemeteries, temples, and water wells.[1]
History
Researchers know little about the village. According to archaeological excavations, the village dates to the fourth century BC.[2] The village is known by the name of Kahl village (Qaryat Dhu Kahl), Kahl one of the biggest Gods (Idol) of Kindah and Madh'hij.[3] It is also known by the names of Qaryat al-Hamraa (Red City) and Dhat al-Jnan. (City of Gardens).
Architecture
Al Faw village is located on the northwestern boarder of the Empty Quarter, thus, it is located on the trade route that connects the south of the Arabian Peninsula with its north-east. Al Faw was an important trade hub and had more than seventeen water wells.[4]
References
- ^ "Qaryat Al Faw". Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities. Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities. Retrieved 23 November 2016.
- ^ A. R. Al-Ansary, Qaryat Al-Fau: A Portrait Of Pre-Islamic Civilisation In Saudi Arabia, 1982, University of Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), p. 146.
- ^ BM Report of Trustees 1981-84, pp.60-61, fig. 18
- ^ "Qaryat Al Faw". Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities. Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities. Retrieved 23 November 2016.