City of Thaggha ld is gold [Archives:2005/903/Last Page]

By: Adel Yahya al-Haddad

A historical city dating back to the fist Himyarate ages, it was called 'Thaggha City in olden times. Nowadays, Ibb is known as the 'Green Province' because Ibb and most its regions are evergreen and the rains fall nearly all long year, especially; in the summer.

The old city of Ibb “Thaggha”, like every ancient Yemeni city, has a huge wall surrounding it. That wall was built to defend the city form enemies and dangers. Some of parts of the wall still remained today. Of course, there were big gates that were closed at night and opened again in the morning. . Unfortunately, most of the gates have been removed, except al-Rakezh gate, which can be seen today. For closing our green tour of the heritage of the old city, we should mention another great wall, which is as an unique ancient monument. That wall was extended from Bada'an Mountain to the old city of Ibb ending to al-Kaber mosque. The wall was acted as a water pipe, which supplied Ibb with pure natural water resources of Bada'an Mountain. What a pity that most of it has been removed because of the development project, but the ruins of the wall does guarantee on the greatness of Yemeni architectural heritage. Indeed, how very great our grandparents were!

“Thaggha” has a famous traditional market (Souk). It is divided into several special markets. Such as;al-Maidan market sells vegetables, fruits and traditional items…ect. Besides the market of Qat, as its name indicates, sells the infamous Qat leaves. In addition to the food market, which presents traditional Yemeni food. e.g. al-Salta, Assed, and some special Yemeni types of bread like al-Maloug, Kudam, and so forth. That market is very famous and important not only in the old city of Ibb, but also for all districts of Ibb in general.



Architectural Heritage:

This old town has many architecture landmarks and rare buildings. For example; Dar Al-Baita'a (Palace of White Princess), was built by the princess Al-Baita'a ben Shamer Ya'aher Awsh about fourth century. Besides Dar al-Mulk, Dar al-Nomi, Dar al-Shabazi, Dar al-Hakem, Dar al-Ezwa, Dar al-Hamman (it means palace of doves), ect.. Those palaces are the highest, largest, and the most attractive buildings in the old city of Ibb. Those buildings were inhabited by the kings and the rulers until 26 th September revelation in 1962.At present, private residents are living there.

It has much great Islamic heritage Such as, there are several famous mosques which were built over a thousand years ago .At a glance, we see that Yemeni architecture is mixed with Islamic architecture. For example; al-Kaber mosque (grand mosque), which belongs to ancient period of Caliph Omar ben al-Khattap who reigned from 13 to 23 A.H (634-644 A.D). Therefore, al-kaber mosque is still called al-Khattapy mosque till now. It is considered one of the most famous and oldest mosques not only in Ibb, but also in Yemen., The mosque has an attractive decoration, and a high minaret,. so; most people of Ibb prefer to pray in al-Kaber mosque, especially; on Fridays. Similarly, AlGalayh mosque is the most beautiful mosque in Ibb, it has a very charming minaret with unique ornaments. That minaret is built architecturally high; so; it attracts every one sees it. Really; al-Galayh mosque lies at the heart of old city, so; it and its attractive minaret beautify the old city of Ibb .In addition, there is another famous mosque is called al-Assadea mosque, which is as an institution for teaching Holy Qura'an and its sciences.



Attractive Natural Beauty:

Ibb is one the most beautiful cities in Yemen. It has attractive, natural beauty for its natural greenery can be seen spreading everywhere. Ibb is famous for abundant water resources, unique vegetables, and plants. So, it is the source of inspiration for artists and poets, for example; one the greatest singers who chanted and admired the natural beauty of Ibb, is the deceased famous singer, Ali bin Ali Al-A'nsee reminds us of Ibb' attractive beauty in his famous song:



“Ibb is the sunset and its

sunrise is Al-Meshenah*”



Since, Ibb is a green arable land, we find that most population are working in agriculture, they grow maize, coffee, Indian corn, vegetables, fruits. Ect. One the most important areas which yields corn is Wady As-Sahool (As-Sahool Valley).That Wady is as a resort for Ibb's residents and visitors.

Ibb City lies on green hills at the western side of Bad'and mountain .It situated on the middle of Yemen like a heart, which beats with life. It is between Sana'a Capital and Taiz Governorate. Ibb city is unique tourist attraction; it has all facilities in which visitors can enjoy there selves, and it will arouse their admiration. It has a very marvelous climate, and friendly people who treat tourists gently and generously. Ibb city is, really, a natural pearl with glamour's beauty and a lot of green landscapes. Therefore; it is not exaggeration to say that is not only the greenest city in Yemen, but also in the Arabian Peninsula. Actually, Ibb is a prim example of the pearl of natural beauty.
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