22/11/2022
The Old Town in Alula is so pretty but yet so steeped in history. In the 12th century,
it was an important stop along the pilgrimage route from Damascus to Makkah (or Mecca in English). Overlooked by the beautiful Musa bin Nusayr Castle, it is a web of mud brick & stone buildings that looks like something straight out of a movie. And don't get me started on the stunning doors! Gorgeous!
It's an outdoor market so it doesn't open till 4.
Although the weather is perfect at the moment, it's all about avoiding the heat of the day during the hotter months when it can reach 50 degrees Celsius!!
We bought pottery, trinkets, ate incredible ice cream and just soaked in the atmosphere!
But probably the biggest highlight was the very
welcoming conversations with the Saudi women. Even though many still wear an abaya (long black dress), head scarf & niqab to cover their face, their warm sparkling eyes shone through!! They were so friendly and keen to chat. Such an honour for me.
Visit Saudi Arabia, ALULA