Since ancient times, Diriyah has been a fortified city known for its numerous walls. After the establishment of the First Saudi State, Imam Muhammad bin Saud ordered the construction of a wall surrounding Diriyah in 1172 AH (1759 CE). This wall is approximately 13 kilometers long and varies in height from 4 to 6.5 meters. It includes 78 towers connected to the wall, in addition to 7 standalone towers. The thickness of the wall also varies, ranging from about 3 to 4 meters.

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Historical Sites

Diriyah Wall

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Al-Bujairi district is located on the eastern side of Wadi Hanifah and is known for its palm plantations and many mud houses. It was known as the cultural and educational hub of Diriyah because of the founding Imam Muhammed Bin Saud's investment in knowledge and education during the first Saudi State. He created an attractive environment for scholars and students and made all the learning essentials available for all parts of society.

Al-Bujairi

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Culture & Tradition

The "Hawama" in Diriyah is a traditional custom through which the locals express their joy and anticipation for the upcoming Eid Al-Fitr. Children, both boys and girls, dress in their new outfits and roam the neighborhoods, singing festive songs and collecting sweets and Eid gifts from the neighborhood houses, starting from dawn until midday.

Al-Hawama

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Diriyah flourished through the collaboration of its residents, each embracing a craft to meet the needs of the community, thus creating a cohesive society marked by stability and growth. Among these crafts were beautification, carpentry, blacksmithing, mud construction, leatherworking, weaving, palm frond weaving, leather tanning, butchering, water wheel operation, and carving. Collectively, these handicrafts have shaped the rich heritage of Diriyah, which continues to be a vital part of our lives today.

Handicrafts

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In Diriyah, traditional games among children and adults encompassed both genders and featured a variety of physical and mental activities, along with chants inspired by the region's rich heritage. Notable examples include "Ihdi Badi," "Umm Tis’" "Haba Haba Huni," "Habasha," "Al-Hablah," "Al-Danana," "Sab' Al-Hajar," "Al-Suqla," and "Azim Sari." These traditional games have played a significant role in the social fabric of the birthplace of the Kingdom.

Traditional Games

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Mulaibeed is the second area where Prince Mani' bin Rabiah Al-Muridi and his tribe settled.  Its fertile lands, skilled inhabitants, and plentiful livestock, exemplifies generosity in its truest form. Mulaibeed stood as the bountiful sister to Ghasibah and the first center of rule, nurturing the growth and prosperity of Diriyah until it blossomed into the capital of the First Saudi State. 

Mulaibeed

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At-Turaif District

Nestled beside the majestic Salwa Palace and overlooking the waters of Wadi Hanifa, At-Turaif Mosque stands gracefully with its mud walls and exquisite wooden roofs. This mosque is considered as one of the most beautiful and significant landmarks in At-Turaif.

At-Turaif Mosque

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Diriyah is distinguished by its hospitality and strong community relations, which is most evident in the construction of the Guest Palace in At-Turaif district, designed to host guests and visitors in a manner befitting Diriyah. The palace continues to stand proudly to this day, preserving its noble traditions of honoring guests, good reception, and kindness to neighbors, among other virtuous qualities upheld by the community.

Hospitality

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At-Turaif District is located on the western bank of Wadi Hanifah, and its name is believed to have been derived from its position at the edge of the valley.

At-Turaif Historical District 

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The Guest Palace, with its expansive spaces, radiates the essence of warmth and graciousness that defines Saudi culture. Meanwhile, the At-Turaif Hammam stands as a symbol of the social opulence that flourished in Diriyah during its golden age, captivating visitors with its stunning architecture and charming details.

Guest Palace and At-Turaif Hammam

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Sbalat Modhi stands as the first charitable endowment in the history of Saudi Arabia, commissioned by Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed bin Saud to honor his mother, Princess Muḍhi bint Sultan Abi Wahtan, celebrating her noble virtues. This generous establishment offered a safe haven to travelers from all corners of the Arabian Peninsula. Today, Sbalat Moḍhi embodies a legacy of selfless love and unmatched generosity, reflecting the very essence of the values upon which our cherished kingdom was built.

Sbalat Modhi

Journey through the enchanting landmarks of Diriyah and lose yourself in its vibrant heritage, where the kingdom's identity, tales of resilience, and whispers of glory intertwine in a timeless narrative.

Wadi Hanifah, a verdant artery of life, pulses at the heart of the Saudi state, embodying both prosperity and a nurturing spirit. Its sun-drenched landscape boasts soft, light brown limestone soil, interwoven with a rich mosaic of vibrant flora. Along its banks, the visionary Prince Mani' bin Rabiah Al-Muraydi forged the emirate of Diriyah, where the valley's abundance not only nourished the land but also ignited the dreams that would shape a remarkable nation.

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Wadi Hanifah: The First Lifeline

Warmly embraced by the valley's ravines from all three sides, Ghasibah district stands as a historical beacon, proudly overlooking Wadi Hanifah.  It is revered as the cradle of Diriyah and the first seat of governance in the kingdom's rich history. Ghasibah was the vital spark that ignited Diriyah’s legacy when Prince Mani' Al-Muridi established the Emirate in (850 AH) 1446 CE.  Because of its strategic location, it became the prince's center of governance and played a crucial role in safeguarding the route of trade and pilgrims who are passing through. 

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Ghasibah: The Seat of Government and the Dawn of Glory

Mulaibeed: Generosity in its Truest Form

At-Turaif Historic District is one of the most significant landmarks of Diriyah. It served as the center of government for the First Saudi State from (1180 AH) 1766 CE. Located on the western banks of Wadi Hanifah, it includes several notable facilities, such as the Bayt Al-Mal (Treasury), Sbalat Modhi, and At-Turaif Bathhouse. The district showcases distinctive Najdi architecture, which narrates the rich heritage and enduring legacy of Diriyah.

Diriyah Wall

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