Enduring Resilience
A Story of Resilience Two Centuries Ago: Imam Turki bin Abdullah
A Story of Resilience Two Centuries Ago: Imam Turki bin Abdullah
Enduring Resilience
Imam Turki bin Abdullah Exhibition narrates the epic story penned by Imam Turki, the founder of the Second Saudi State.
The exhibition takes visitors on a rich historical journey, delving into the life of the founder of the Second Saudi State and exploring the historical, political, and social events that shaped his journey. It traces his path from leaving Diriyah after its fall to his triumphant entry into Riyadh, where he established the state in its second phase.
This year's exhibition holds particular significance as it coincides with the 200th anniversary of the founding of the Second Saudi State by Imam Turki bin Abdullah in 1240 AH (1824 CE)
Imam Turki bin Abdullah
Imam Turki bin Abdullah bin Mohammad bin Saud bin Muhammad bin Mugrin bin Markhan bin Ibraheem bin Musa bin Ribi’a bin Mani’ AlMuraidi was born in Diriyah in 1769 CE, the grandson of the founder of the First Saudi State, Imam Mohammad bin Saud.
Imam Turki bin Abdullah lived during the peak of the First Saudi State's glory, power, and prestige. He was raised in an environment rich in intellectual and economic vitality—Diriyah, a renowned hub of knowledge where travelers flocked to gain wisdom, and a thriving center of prosperity. Within the walls of the At-Turaif palaces, Imam Turki absorbed the principles of leadership and governance, drawing from the wisdom of the Imams. He drank from the life-giving waters of Wadi Hanifah, and received his education from Diriyah scholars in its local mosques and schools.
Al-Ajrab Sword
Al-Ajrab Sword is one of the most famous national symbols in Saudi history. This sword accompanied Imam Turki bin Abdullah on his journey to unify and restore the Saudi sovereignty.
When others hid in fear,
You stood, firm, facing the foe near.
Stepping forward, bold and bright,
Ever at my side, through day and night.
Restoring Legacy
Imam Turki bin Abdullah left in disguise, leaving behind his land with a heart full of hope—a hope to return one day and restore the glory of his ancestors. The scent of gunpowder lingered in the air, and the haunting sound of Diriyah’s houses crumbling echoed in his ears—his home, his childhood, and the land of his youth slipping away. From afar, he saw the charred remains of palm trees, and the blood of the brave who had fought, their sacrifice now nourishing the earth beneath him.
I have never abandoned my land,
Nor will I ever,
I have never taken its soil for granted,
Nor will I ever,
Reigned Victorious!
The Saudi flag was raised once again. Imam Turki continued in Riyadh what his grandfather had started in Diriyah: he restored the ruling palace, rebuilt what had been destroyed of Riyadh's walls, and renovated the great mosque that bears his name.
After the cruelty of night,
And the darkness, void of light,
The army of sorrow was cast away,
As the sun of Najd rose to stay.
The Death of Imam Turki bin Abdullah
Imam Turki bin Abdullah was martyred as he left the mosque after Friday prayer on the 30th of Dhul-Hijjah, 1249 AH (1834 AD).
He passed away after a decade of leadership, during which he firmly established the foundations of the Second Saudi State. His leadership wasn’t confined to politics and social welfare; he also prioritized architectural development. From the reconstruction of the walls damaged by the Ottoman invasion, along with the building of the palace and mosque. The legacy of these projects remains a testament to the remarkable engineering accomplishments in his capital.
His reign was marked by unification and restoring order and justice of the Saudi State by returning the rule to its rightful owners. These tremendous achievements earned him the title of ""Founder of the Second Saudi State.
Explore a remarkable chapter in Saudi history
Visit the very grounds where pivotal events unfolded two hundred years ago, shaping the course of history. We warmly invite you to the Imam Turki bin Abdullah exhibition at Bujairi Terrace, where you can delve deeper into the life of one of the Saudi's legendary heroes