Qasr alKitf Tourism

Qasr al-Kitf in Shibam, Yemen, is a striking architectural wonder located in Hadhramaut province. This historic site is part of the famous ancient city often referred to as 'Manhattan of the desert' due to its impressive mud-brick-made high-rise buildings. Qasr al-Kitf is one of such structures, representing the traditional Yemeni architecture that dates back to the 16th century. Shibam itself has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982, recognized for its unique and extraordinary example of urban planning and early vertical construction. This landmark is also indicative of the adaptability and resilience of the communities that have thrived in this harsh desert environment for centuries. The buildings are made out of mud bricks, but they stand several stories tall, creating a fortified cityscape that is unparalleled elsewhere in the world. The preservation of these structures is a testament to the skillful engineering and resourceful use of local materials by the people of the Hadhramaut valley.