ALULA — Rising quietly among the dramatic landscapes of AlUla, Jabal Ikmah is one of the region’s most remarkable archaeological sites, home to more than 300 ancient inscriptions carved into its rock faces. **media[2651355]** These inscriptions form the largest preserved collection of Dadanitic texts in northwest Arabia, surviving centuries of harsh environmental conditions. Dating back to the first millennium BCE, the inscriptions offer rare and invaluable insights into the civilizations that once flourished in AlUla, particularly the Dadanite and Lihyanite kingdoms. **media[2651356]** Etched in stone, the texts and symbols document social activities, human expression, and aspects of daily life across multiple historical periods, providing a vivid picture of how communities lived, communicated, and organized their societies. Beyond their historical significance, the inscriptions hold exceptional linguistic and cultural value. They trace the development of early dialects, writing styles, and literary expression, making Jabal Ikmah a key reference point for understanding the evolution of language and culture in ancient Arabia. **media[2651357]** In recognition of its outstanding research and heritage value, Jabal Ikmah was inscribed in the “Memory of the World” Register by UNESCO. The designation, achieved through the efforts of the Royal Commission for AlUla in coordination with the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, highlights the global importance of the site. What sets Jabal Ikmah apart is the authenticity and integrity of its inscriptions. Preserved in their original natural setting, they provide researchers with reliable primary material for studying ancient Arabian kingdoms and contribute to a deeper understanding of human settlement and societal development in northwest Arabia.
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