Located in Saudi Arabia’s Al-Washm region, the city of Marat stands as a testament to the deep historical roots within Najd. The Arabic literature piece ‘Glimpses into the History of Marat’ offers readers a profound look into the city’s past. Authored by Saudi scholar Abdullah Al-Duwaihi, the work was first made available to the public in 2012 and continues to serve as a key resource for those intrigued by the Kingdom’s heritage.
Al-Duwaihi’s dedication is evident across approximately 700 pages, which delve into Marat’s geology, significant milestones, the fabric of its society, governance, and longstanding heritage. The volume sheds light on Marat’s role along the Hajj caravan pathway, its scholarly contributions, religious centers, recreational activities, and cultural life, along with its archaeological treasures. It encapsulates narratives from various geographers and voyagers who have traversed the area.
The work of Abdullah Al-Duwaihi meticulously portrays the historical journey of Marat, offering invaluable insights into its bygone era.
The town of Marat is defined geographically as part of the Al-Washm district, nestled northwest of the capital, Riyadh. It is encircled by multiple governorates, featuring a network of centers, villages, and hamlets. The region boasts a variety of governmental and private establishments that have played pivotal roles in its growth and demographic expansion.
- Marat was a key stop for King Abdulaziz on his journey from Riyadh to Makkah, where the historic Hijaz Road intersected.
- The basin of Ghudair Kumait in Marat is a natural wonder where floodwaters gather but do not stagnate.
In his exhaustive work, Al-Duwaihi highlights Ghudair Kumait, a natural catchment area named after the notable Jabal Kumait. The book illustrates how the well-being of Marat was historically linked to the security of this landmark, as the saying goes, ‘Secure Kumait, and you secure Marat.’
The narrative doesn’t just recount historical events; it also journeys through places like the ruins of Al-Aroosah and Al-Walidi Well, which bears the name of Khalid bin Al-Walid, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad. Historical sources claim that Khalid bin Al-Walid established the well during his passage through Marat.
Royal history
King Abdulaziz’s visit to Marat is marked as a significant event, as it served as a vital junction on the Hijaz Road. Anticipating his arrival, royal tents were erected, and telegrams dispatched to ensure the necessary provisions were in place. This made Marat a dynamic trade center, particularly during the Hajj season, with an array of tents, merchants, and consumers dotted along the roadside.
Al-Duwaihi’s book includes experiences recounted by various explorers who visited Marat, such as George Forster Sadleir, Harry Philby, Thomas C. Barger, Amin Al-Rihani, Youssef Yassin, Ahmed Al-Kadhimi, and Atiq Al-Biladi. An omission from the book is the account of Ahmad Abdul-Ghafoor Attar, who offered captivating insights into Marat in the 1960s.
The book also pays homage to Marat’s architectural legacy, contrasting the ancient mud-brick neighborhoods with modern edifices. While the old government palace has been lost to contemporary development, it is remembered as a historic symbol of the province.
Inside Marat, neighborhoods such as Bab Al-Naqeeb, Zab’arah, and Al-Hafsiah once thrived, alongside others. The book notes that the first educational establishment, Al-Amiriah School, was founded in 1948, followed by the inauguration of the first girls’ school in 1967, marking the start of progressive educational advancements in Marat.