Haid Al-Jazil – A Forgotten Legacy of Yemen

Perhaps one of the world’s most unusual locations is Haid al-Jazil. The perilous town in Yemen’s Daw’an District in Hadhramaut Governorate is perched atop a massive rock and overlooks a vast valley that is largely desolate.

The village’s mud-brick structures are perched atop a massive boulder that provides a view over the Wadi Dawan valley. Nearly 70% of dwellings are in ruins as a result of years of excessive rainfall, erosion, and poor maintenance. Locals claim that because of its clifftop location, he can see over his farmland below.

He used to walk on rooftops with his neighbors to see relatives who lived close by many years ago. Researchers observed that many of the buildings here collapsed because of the mud, clay, and wooden construction; precipitation undermined the foundation, and termites chewed through the timber ceiling and structural pillars.

The village’s rich history goes back to the Middle Ages. Legends in the area claim that Haid Al Jazil was once a bustling commercial hub where traders would gather to exchange products with other cities. However, because of its isolated location and challenging access, the village was eventually abandoned. Seventeen people are living in the settlement, as per the 2004 census. They are all overcoming loneliness, solitude, and some of the most difficult terrain.

Haid Al Jazil has gained popularity as a tourist destination in recent years, drawing tourists from all over the world who are enthralled by the unusual settlement situated on a boulder. Because it resembles the well-known movie location, the community is frequently referred to as the “Jungle community.” Visitors are astounded by the villagers’ flexibility and resiliency because they have survived and prospered in such a hostile environment. The people have succeeded in building a lively and friendly society that is a monument to the human spirit, despite the difficulties they encounter.

Since the civil conflict is raging all around them, Haid Al-Jazil rarely draws attention from the outside world. This is especially true given the current political context. Dawan is home to a sizable security force and a permanent military installation where soldiers receive training. Additionally, the army has erected checkpoints there and conducted raids on what are thought to be the hideouts of militants.

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