Shibam: A Nation of Wonder, 'Manhattan of the Desert' of Historical Significance

Shibam: A Nation of Wonder, 'Manhattan of the Desert' of Historical Significance. Shibam, an ancient city in Yemen known as 'Manhattan of the Desert', is an outstanding example of ancient culture and building technology. Located in the mountains facing the desert, this city offers a fascinating view with high-rise buildings made of clay in the 16th century.. Shibam: A Nation of Wonder, 'Manhattan of the Desert' of Historical Significance In the midst of the Yemen desert, there lies an ancient city that is captivating, Shibam. Known as 'Manhattan of the Desert', Shibam is an outstanding example of ancient culture and human creativity. Located in the mountains facing the desert, this city offers a fascinating view with high-rise buildings made of clay in the 16th century. History and National Architecture Shibam, located in the Rub' al Khali desert, is the first natural local city to exist. The history of this city can be traced back to the time of the Lasal, but its peak concern is in the 16th and 17th centuries, when the inhabitants began to build high-rise buildings made of clay bricks known as 'qal'ats'. These buildings, which usually have six to seven levels, are among the tallest buildings in the world made of clay. Building with Clay The main material used to build Shibam is clay and brick. Clay taken from the surrounding area is used to form strong and durable brick. These bricks are processed using complex techniques, including drying under the sun and casting with specific notes to increase durability. The walls of these buildings are thick, usually more than one meter, which provides good thermal insulation and resistance. Protection from Rain and Erosion One of the biggest problems faced by Shibam is the influence of the weather, especially rain and erosion. To protect these buildings, the ancient inhabitants used techniques such as reinforced surfaces with argil or clay applied as an outer layer. This technique not only protects the walls from erosion but also helps to prevent water from entering the building. In addition, the roofs of the buildings are made of wood and pressed clay, which provides additional protection from rain and heat. Role in Culture and Tourism Shibam is not only an outstanding example of ancient culture and building technology but also a natural heritage of valuable cultural heritage. In 1982, UNESCO recognized it as a World Heritage Site, acknowledging its historical and cultural value. Today, Shibam attracts tourists from all over the world who are interested in seeing unique building methods and rich history. Future and Preservation Although Shibam is an outstanding example of ancient culture and building technology, it also faces modern challenges such as weather influence and settlement shrinkage. Ongoing preservation efforts are being carried out to protect these buildings and ensure that this cultural heritage continues to live on for future generations. Conclusion Shibam is an outstanding example of ancient culture and human creativity. With high-rise buildings made of clay, this city is a natural local city that showcases excellent culture and technology. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shibam continues to be an important symbol of Yemen's culture and history, attracting tourists and scientists from all over the world.