Take a look at AlUla through the eyes of a real-life historian
Sponsored: This is the true magic of Winter at Tantora…
AlUla, the ancient Arabian oasis city located in the Medina Province, has shaped several lives through its rich history and enduring traditions. Today we shine a spotlight on Ahmed Alimam, a historian who showcases all the stories AlUla has to tell (not a small feat, might we say) and all the ones you need to know.
Born and raised in AlUla, all of Ahmed Alimam’s memories are centred on community, heritage, and exploration of his glorious city, mirroring AlUla’s unique place in the world.
When he remembers his childhood, Alimam thinks fondly of adventures in Old Town, with its labyrinth of mudbrick houses and narrow alleys, which was once a thriving hub of trade. “My brothers and I would spend time running through the streets.”
As time passed, Ahmed found himself having a deep appreciation for the history and traditions that have guided his ancestors for centuries. Among the many traditions that were bestowed on him, few stand out more than the Tantora, AlUla’s ancient sundial. Tantora was previously used to determine the beginning of new agricultural seasons and guide water distribution (the time to share water between farms).
“It was more than just a tool—it was part of AlUla locals’ daily lives,” according to Ahmed. During the winter, the Tantora held even more importance, as to make sure the time was divided as fairly as possible, the water would be heated, and then everyone would gather near the dial to witness to process, it then came to be a time where the community would come together and share stories.
The special bond between AlUla’s people, the land, and the Tantora is now celebrated at the annual Winter at Tantora festival. What started off as a small, modest, and local gathering in 2018 has since drawn crowds from across Saudi Arabia and tourists from around the world. The festival celebrates AlUla’s history and culture, also combining it with contemporary flair, making it a simply must-visit fixture on the Saudi calendar.
Expect guided tours, immersive entertainment, and performances from renowned musicians, all paying homage to the stories of the past. Ahmed says, “The same way the Tantora guided our ancestors, this festival guides us to keep our culture and stories alive.”
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