Saudi Post Releases Special Stamp Celebrating Al-Faw’s UNESCO Recognition
In a tribute etched in ink and paper, Saudi Post has unveiled a special commemorative stamp to honor a profound national achievement: the inscription of the Al-Faw Archaeological Area onto the UNESCO World Heritage List. Valued at SR3, this stamp does more than facilitate mail; it carries the weight of six millennia of human history, celebrating Al-Faw as the Kingdom’s eighth entry on this prestigious global register.
Nestled south of Riyadh, where the vast plains meet the formidable Tuwaiq Escarpment, Al-Faw’s location was no accident. For thousands of years, it served as a vital strategic junction on ancient trade routes, linking the cultures and commerce of southern Arabia with its central and eastern regions. This crossroads of civilizations, situated at the intersection of the Empty Quarter and the Tuwaiq mountains, has yielded an astonishing archaeological tapestry.
A Landscape of Lost Civilizations
The site is a vast open-air museum, home to nearly 12,000 documented archaeological remains that narrate a story of human habitation stretching back over 6,000 years. The landscape itself is a testament to a long and complex dialogue between people and their environment—a dialogue that came to an enigmatic halt in the 5th century AD when depleted water sources led to the area’s abandonment.
UNESCO’s recognition last year underscored Al-Faw’s historical significance, noting its role as a bustling hub that was suddenly deserted. The remains uncovered tell of successive occupations by different populations from prehistoric times through the late pre-Islamic era. Among its most captivating features are:
- Paleolithic and Neolithic tools, marking humanity’s earliest chapters.
- The sacred mountain of Khashm Qaryah, adorned with ancient rock carvings.
- The remnants of the city of Qaryat Al-Faw.
- Elaborate funeral cairns and various stone structures.
- Ingenious ancient water management systems, highlighting the inhabitants’ adaptation to a harsh climate.
Joining a Prestigious Legacy
With this inscription, Al-Faw takes its rightful place among Saudi Arabia’s other UNESCO-recognized treasures:
- Al-Hijr (2008)
- At-Turaif in Diriyah (2010)
- Historic Jeddah (2014)
- Rock Art in the Hail Region (2015)
- Al-Ahsa Oasis (2018)
- Hima Cultural Area (2021)
- Uruq Bani Maarid Protected Area (2023)
The issuance of this stamp is part of a cherished tradition by Saudi Post. These commemorative pieces honor pivotal national and international events, turning key chapters of Saudi history into collectible artifacts for philatelists, researchers, and heritage enthusiasts worldwide.
More than a postal token, this SR3 stamp is a miniature ambassador. It spreads news of Al-Faw’s global significance, invites curiosity about the rich narrative of the Arabian Peninsula, and proudly marks another step in preserving and sharing the Kingdom’s profound cultural legacy with the world.
Also Read:
Why North Korean Prisoners of War in Ukraine Want to Move South
US Visa Ban on Ex-EU Commissioner Breton Draws Strong Reaction from France
