Al-Asdaa excavations uncover ancient mosque and artifacts in Al-Baha

ALBAHA — The Heritage Commission has completed its second season of archaeological excavations at the Al-Asdaa site in Al-Makhwah Governorate, as part of its scientific programs to study archaeological sites across the Kingdom and document their architectural features and cultural components. These efforts contribute to a deeper understanding of patterns of human settlement and the economic and religious activities that occurred at these sites across different historical periods. **media[2684424]** Considered one of the most prominent historical mining sites in the southwest of Saudi Arabia, Al-Asdaa holds significant geographical and historical importance due to its location as a major station along the Hajj route from Yemen to Makkah. Field excavation revealed a number of architectural features and artifacts that reflect life at the site during its periods of prosperity. Among the most prominent discoveries is an ancient mosque measuring approximately 11 by 12 meters, featuring a mihrab and three main entrances. **media[2684425]** The mosque also had square column bases that once supported the roof, indicating a clearly defined architectural layout. Excavations also revealed four rooms adjacent to the mosque on the northeastern side, some measuring 4 by 5 meters and others 3 by 4 meters. These rooms include architectural elements such as water basins, storage facilities, and internal hearths used for cooking, which were likely intended for residential purposes or service-related activities associated with the mosque. **media[2684427]** Other discovered artifacts include fragments of various pottery vessels, both plain and glazed, as well as soapstone vessels, and grinding stones and stone mills used in food preparation, further illustrating the everyday living patterns and subsistence activities of the inhabitants. These findings are part of the Heritage Commission’s broader efforts to expand field archaeological studies and document heritage sites across the Kingdom, contributing to the development of a scientific knowledge base on the history of the Arabian Peninsula and highlighting the richness and diversity of its cultural and civilizational heritage.