Saudi Arabia sightseeing. Travel guide - attractions, sights, nature and touristic places

Saudi Arabia has always been a large centre of pilgrimage. Despite the fact that this country doesn't do much to promote its tourism industry, every year the country is visited by thousands of travelers, who want to see beautiful ancient cities and internationally famous sanctuaries.

Several important tourist objects are located in the capital of country, the city of Riyadh. Here travellers are recommended to visit the Masmak Fortress that was built in the middle of the 19th century. The fortress was a witness of many important historic events, and since its building it changed owners several times. Initially, the fortress was used as a warehouse, and later a museum was opened in it.

Diriyah is a very interesting and old city located not far away from the capital. Travelers are recommended visit this place as they will find many fascinating attractions there. Beautiful palaces, mosques and a thick protective wall remind of the past glory of this place. Diriyah was founded in 1446 and for more than three centuries the city was the most prosperous settlement of the Middle East. In the beginning of the 19th century, the city was completely destroyed by the Turks. After that, Diriyah was carefully restored during many years, and nowadays it's a very interesting research center for scientists and archaeologists. There are also modern buildings in the capital, and they deserve close attention. Kingdom Centre is considered one of the most famous skyscrapers in Riyadh. The height of the building is 311 metres, and its 47 floors have become home for numerous offices, conference halls, sports clubs, restaurants and a five-star hotel. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

However, Medina has remained the most famous destination for pilgrims for several hundred years. There are many beautiful mosques in the city, but the Quba Mosque remains one of the most famous of them all. This is one of the oldest mosques in the world, and first stones of the mosque were positioned by the Prophet Muhammad. The building attracts not only pilgrims, but also architects as this mosque is a great example of first Islamic buildings. Al-Masjid an-Nabawī is the second most important religious shrine for Muslims. This mosque is also known as the Mosque of the Prophet. There are many legends and tales connected with the mosque. It has changed its original look greatly as every epoch added new features to its design and architecture.

The Great Mosque, Masjid al-Haram, remains of the most famous destination in Mecca. This mosque hosts a priceless religious artifact of all Muslims - the Black Stone. According to a legend, this stone was gifted by God to Adam and Eve as a symbol of forgiveness. The mosque amazes visitors with its size and beautiful design.

History and Entertainment

Saudi Arabia is famous not only for its religious attractions. Its guests also have an opportunity to enjoy different entertainments. Food traditions of the country deserve to be mentioned. At national restaurants, dishes are still cooked by special old recipes. Main values of the national cuisine are beef and lamb dishes. Poultry is cooked here in a special way too. A famous national dish is corn porridge called burgul. Another masterpiece of the national cuisine is guzi, i.e. baked lamb that is filled with spices and nuts when being cooked.

The people of Saudi Arabia are one of the world leaders in consuming coffee. Making and drinking coffee is a real ceremony for the locals. On the market, tourists can choose different types of coffee and popular supplements to them. The locals have coffee with spices. The most popular supplements are cardamom and cloves. In gift shops, visitors can buy beautiful accessories for preparing and having this popular national drink.

Beach recreation and entertainments deserve a special attention. There is one of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world at the coast of the country. Both experienced divers and beginners will find here dive sites. Not so far from the coast are beautiful islands with wild beaches and pristine nature located. You will diversify your beach recreation by visiting them.

Shopping enthusiasts will not be disappointed too, as they will have an opportunity to walk along picturesque eastern markets. When walking along colorful market rows, you can buy popular national spices, clothes in the national style and jewels at attractive prices. Visitors of local markets and small private shops should remember that it is accustomed to bargain here. For local sellers, the bargaining has long become an old kind rite that lets lower prices of many products significantly. Friday is a day off in the country, so most of the markets and shops do not work on this day.