"A heavenly and indescribable fragrance seems to strike and stir the senses. Even far out from land as you sail past you do not miss the fragrant odors blowing from the myrrh bushes." - Agatharcides
Yemen, the blessed land that was once the realm of the illustrious Sheba or Saba, a kingdom that lured the curiosity of great figures like Alexander the Great, Emperor Augustus, and the monarchs of Ethiopia and Byzantium. One couldn't help but feel the weight of history, imagining the bustling trade routes and the tales of riches that once flowed through this very land.
It was once referred to as Arabia Felix - Flourishing Arabia - a name given by the Romans for the region’s vast treasures—frankincense, myrrh, spices, perfumes, and precious woods that were coveted by thousands.
As accomplished traders, Sabaens embarked upon journeys across the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean, forging links with distant lands like India and Indonesia. Their maritime expeditions yielded a treasured bounty: spices that were coveted far and wide.
These precious cargoes travelled first through the ocean's expanse and then, upon reaching Yemen's shores, went on a caravan-led pilgrimage along the Red Sea's coastal path to Petra. Here, at the nexus of ancient trade routes, the fragrant riches of the east found their way into the hands of civilizations both east and west.
At present, much of the region is little more than an arid desert however nestled amidst this landscape and cliffs are the towering mud-brick houses. These architectural wonders from the past are dwellings up to seven storeys high built on a fortified, rectangular grid plan of streets and squares.
Once in the crossroads of the great spice route, many of its sun-dried mud brick tower houses and palaces now lie in abandon. Much has gone wrong but a significant portion of history and heritage remains resilient.
Walking through the narrow alleyways and gazing upon these age-old structures, one can't help but be transported back in time, imagining the bustling life that once filled these unique dwellings and the stories they hold within their earthen walls.