NYN | News
The Office of the General Authority for Antiquities and Museums in Dhamar Governorate documented yesterday an exceptional archaeological cache in the villages of Hijrat Munqadha and Al-Mahallah in the rural areas of the city district. The discovery reveals the ingenuity of ancient Yemenis in designing advanced systems for water management.
The cache was uncovered during the implementation of a local project aimed at constructing rainwater harvesting tanks, intended to optimize the use of rainwater throughout the year and enhance groundwater reserves.
It was found that the cache contains a sophisticated water channel — a unique example of ancient Yemeni civilization — showcasing the precision of techniques used by ancestors to collect and distribute rainwater for agricultural and irrigation purposes. This gives the area a distinct significance compared to other regions in Dhamar Governorate.
Further investigation revealed that the site includes historical cities mentioned in ancient inscriptions, such as Drīs, Badsh, Hijrat Munqadha, Al-Mahallah, and Rasābah. These were once prosperous Himyarite urban centers that later transformed into vibrant Islamic hubs.
The findings highlight how ancient Yemeni civilizations — particularly the Himyarite — successfully utilized their surrounding environment to ensure the sustainability of life and agriculture.
The Authority is currently working to transform the site into an archaeological and educational destination, where university students can receive training in archaeological and engineering field studies. This initiative aims to enhance the scientific and cultural value of this unique civilizational heritage.
