Located in the north-west of the Kingdom, the AlUla Archaeological Sites offer a unique insight into the importance of astronomy in the history of the region. Stories told by guides and testimonies of ancient civilizations show how the vast desert’s starry vault played a vital role in guiding travelers and merchant caravans through the centuries, helping them navigate the vast expanses.

A passionate tour guide and astronomy enthusiast, Majed al-Zahoufi has developed a deep connection to the desert. His journey into the world of stars began almost a decade ago with careful reading and personal observation.

Al-Zahoufi told Arab News that his engagement with these issues is firmly grounded in reality and not at all unusual. Based on his extensive knowledge of Arabian history, civilizations, and astronomy, he pointed out a consistent pattern: “The various civilizations that flourished in Al-Ula, such as the Dadanite, Lihyanite, Nabataean, and Minier, all controlled strategically important global trade routes.”

“Among these routes were the famous incense routes used by traders from the southern region of Oman to travel to the northern parts of the Arabian Peninsula. This trading hub facilitated interaction between different cultures, including the Greeks, Babylonians, and Assyrians.”

Standing at the crossroads of trade, these ancient civilizations communicated with diverse cultures, many of which were heavily influenced by astronomy. Some even worshiped the stars.

Throughout history, cultures around the world have recognized the profound interaction between earth and sky. Celestial bodies, like celestial bodies, were key to navigation, determined the seasons, and guided various cultural practices. This connection between civilizations and the cosmos remains evident in AlUla’s rich web of past.

“The various civilizations that thrived in AlUla, such as the Dadanite, Lihyanite, Nabataean, and Minaean, all controlled strategically important global trade routes.” Majed al-Zahoufi, leader of AlUla

Al-Zahoufi said: “In my personal observations and readings, I see a close relationship between the Nabataeans, their artifacts and the sky. Numerous scientific studies confirm this connection and show how the Nabataeans believed in the influence of the constellations.

This ancient connection between civilizations and the cosmos has caught the attention of modern experts. In May, a team of archaeoastronomy specialists launched a field study at the AlUla oasis.

Their goal is to uncover the reasons for the choice of certain places by ancient civilizations, to decipher the symbolism of epitaphs and to decipher the cultures’ perception of the sky. By analyzing architectural details, decorative motifs, and calendrical data, the researchers aim to create a complete picture of how the heavens influenced the way these societies viewed the world.

Juan Antonio Belmonte, an astrophysicist from the Institute of Astrophysics of Spain, found a close correlation between the earth and the sky thanks to preliminary data collected from a hundred Nabatean tombs. In the coming months, analytical and statistical studies will further clarify the connection between the ancient Arabian kingdoms and the universe.

Among AlUla’s treasures is the Gharameel area, a stargazing paradise — the farther you get from the city lights, the more stars become visible in the night sky, Al-Zahoufi explained. Around 6,000 twinkling stars adorn the sky in Gharameel, an awe-inspiring spectacle that is only possible when light pollution abates.

To preserve this remarkable stargazing destination, the AlUla Royal Commission is actively working to reduce the city’s light emissions. Visitors can also take a night trip to the remote area of ​​Gharameel to take in the constellations beneath AlUla’s pristine night skies.

AlUla’s magic extends to its geological wonders. Abdallah al-Shammari, a Saudi geologist, explained that Gharameel’s unique rock formations are composed of layers of sediment sculpted by ancient marine and river environments.

“Sedimentation began in this formation at the end of the Cambrian and the beginning of the Ordovician (Paleozoic), so about 470 and 500 million years ago,” said Al. -Shammari.

He also pointed out that these geological wonders mirror similar formations around the world, from the Ennedi Plateau in Chad to the desert in Saudi Arabia.

Woven into Arabic culture, the stars serve as poetic inspiration and cultural landmarks, embodying the enduring relationship between man and the cosmos. Archeology and astronomy dance together in the enchanting tale of AlUla, unveiling a story that transcends time.

Al-Zahoufi added: “Astronomy is not just a scientific enterprise; It is a wonderful privilege to reveal the mysteries of heaven, direct agricultural practices, and even influence the arts.”

“The Arabs also embodied astronomy in Arabic poetry, praising their kings and flirting with their lovers through the stars, the stars representing to the Arabs an authentic culture and a means of entertainment.”

This text is a translation of an article published on Arabnews.com