Najran
Al-Ukhdud is the ancient city of Najran in the south of Saudi Arabia, once an important stop on the incense trade routes. Islamic tradition identifies it with…
Al-Ukhdud is the ancient city of Najran in the south of Saudi Arabia, once an important stop on the incense trade routes. Islamic tradition identifies it with the story of the People of the Ditch, believers who were thrown into a burning trench for refusing to give up their faith in the One God, an event usually connected with the persecution of the Christians of Najran in the early sixth century. The archaeological site has the remains of a walled citadel, stone buildings carved with ancient South Arabian inscriptions, and a museum. It is a protected heritage site open to visitors, and for Muslims it is a sobering reminder of steadfastness in faith.