Dar Al Hajar

The cultural landscape surrounding Dar al-Hajar Palace represents one of the most iconic historic sites in the Wadi Dhahr region, located approximately 14 kilometres northwest of the capital, Sana’a. The choice of the palace’s location dates back to pre-Islamic times. Historians indicate that Dar al-Hajar was built atop the ruins of an ancient Sabaean palace known as Hisn Dhi Sidān, constructed by the Himyarites in the early centuries CE. The fortress was later destroyed by the Ottomans around four centuries ago. The current palace was rebuilt in the late 18th century CE by order of the Yemeni ruler Imam al-Mansur Ali ibn al-Abbas, who instructed his vizier Ali ibn Salih al-Ammari (1736–1798)—a figure known for his expertise in architecture, astronomy, poetry, and literature—to construct a summer residence in Wadi Dhahr. It was later restored in the early 20th century by Imam Yahya Hamid al-Din and passed through the hands of successive Yemeni rulers.

The palace consists of seven harmoniously arranged stories, ingeniously designed to integrate with the natural rock formation that serves as its foundation. It includes a well carved 70 meters deep into the rock, around which are distributed kitchens, mills, and storage rooms. At its entrance stands the ancient Taluqah tree, estimated to be around 700 years old.

Dar al-Hajar is considered one of Yemen’s most distinguished historical buildings, renowned for its authentic architectural artistry. Its design blends seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape, forming a unique aesthetic scene in harmony with the lush gardens of the valley—an exceptional testament to the ingenuity of the Yemeni people.

The property embodies significant architectural and historical value that spans multiple eras. It stands as a powerful symbol of the uniqueness of Yemeni architecture in terms of site selection, structural design, functional purpose, and use of local building materials. It has even been featured on modern Yemeni currency as a national emblem, further cementing its symbolic and cultural importance.

Criterion (iii): The site offers exceptional testimony to the civilization and culture of Yemen over hundreds of years.

Criterion (iv): It provides a living example of a unique style of Yemeni architecture and construction.

The building holds substantial historical significance, particularly due to its strategic placement on a towering rock formation in Wadi Khudayr, which features a running stream and diverse vegetation. The palace incorporates authentic architectural elements that have been preserved since its original construction. The design demonstrates the interaction between humans and the striking natural landscape. The palace served exclusively as a residence for city rulers and their entourage, owing to its defensible and strategic location. The form, design, and function of the palace are fully integrated and continue to express the structure’s original intent and character.

The site retains all elements that express its outstanding value. The structure is of sufficient scale to communicate its cultural and architectural significance. The building is in good condition, has not suffered significant damage, and currently faces no known threats.