Old Jeddah

Photographer: Kirsten A. Harr, Location: Al-Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

We loved our visit to Al-Balad, Jeddah in Saudi Arabia.  We fondly remember our time meandering through the old streets and admiring the beautiful architecture.

Photographer: Kirsten A. Harr, Location: Al-Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Photographer: Kirsten A. Harr, Location: Al-Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Al-Balad, founded in the 7th century,  is the historical center of Jeddah. Some buildings that remain in the town are made from corals from the nearby Red Sea, reinforced with limestone, and intricately decorated with teal, mahogany, and shisham brought from India and Africa as ships passed the port. Some of the old buildings in Al-Balad are more than 500 years old and have been preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Photographer: Kirsten A. Harr, Location: Al-Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Photographer: Kirsten A. Harr, Location: Al-Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

When we visited, the streets were relatively barren which made for open spaces to walk and capture photos.  But in the evening, the streets began to fill as the market doors opened.

Photographer: Kirsten A. Harr, Location: Al-Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Photographer: Kirsten A. Harr, Location: Al-Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia