Baha’s stone building craft thriving as local artisans embrace heritage

The architectural similarities among buildings in Baha are notable. Dwellings are closely arranged, and villages feature narrow streets and a central square for social activities. (SPA)
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  • Building using stone, a cornerstone of the region’s heritage, remains integral to Baha’s cultural fabric, with locals working to adapt the practice to meet contemporary demands

RIYADH: The natural environment profoundly shapes the architectural heritage of ºÚÁÏÉçÇøâ€™s Baha region, where the traditional craft of stone building has thrived for generations, with local artisans skillfully utilizing the region’s abundant stones and trees.

Building using stone, a cornerstone of the region’s heritage, remains integral to Baha’s cultural fabric, with locals working to adapt the practice to meet contemporary demands, a Saudi Press Agency report highlighted.

Mohammed Al-Ghamdi, a seasoned builder in Baha, highlighted the labor-intensive nature of the building process, which lasts several months and involves using various types of stones, including cornerstones, long stones and the supporting Al-Mateen or Al-Dahr stones, which are essential for erecting a room.

Saleh Al-Zahrani, another local builder, highlighted the process of finishing a building with mud plastering, using juniper trees for doors and windows, and embellishing them with decorative carvings. The houses are further adorned with white quartz stones, creating a distinct look.

The architectural similarities among buildings in Baha are notable. Dwellings are closely arranged, and villages feature narrow streets and a central square for social activities.