Plizio Visual Lab
Thula Old City
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
historical-site
Weather…
Water temperature…
Thula is one of the most remarkably preserved historic highland towns in Yemen, located on a plateau at an altitude of approximately 2,600 meters northwest of Sana'a. Its origins trace back to the Himyarite period, and for centuries it served as a bastion of resistance against invaders, most notably the Ottoman Turks. The architecture of Thula is defined by the use of local ochre-colored sandstone, with multi-story tower houses built in a dense, defensive cluster. The town features an intricate system of ancient water cisterns and paved alleyways that have remained largely unchanged since the medieval era. Included on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, Thula has undergone extensive restoration that earned the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture. Overlooking the town is the Al-Mutahhar fort, perched on a sheer cliff, which historically provided an impregnable refuge during times of conflict.
- Location: Yemen
- Top sights: Bab al Mayah Gate · Jabal al Jamimah
- Nearby: Bajil (84 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 18 | 19 | 21 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 25 | 21 | 19 | 18 |
| Rain mm | 2 | 1 | 2 | 8 | 3 | 1 | 8 | 10 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 6 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The old city of Thula is generally accessible as it is still inhabited. Visitors can wander through the narrow alleys and admire the stone houses from outside, though the interior of the historic citadel is often not open to the public.
Typical hours
Since Thula is a living settlement, there are no fixed opening hours; the streets are walkable throughout the day. Early morning or late afternoon offer the best atmosphere, when the light paints the stone facades golden.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the public alleys and from viewpoints. Please respect residents' privacy and ask for permission before photographing people or their courtyards.
Time needed
A leisurely walk through the old town takes about one and a half to two hours. If you also want to explore the surrounding terraced fields and the ancient city wall, allow three hours.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby historic city of Shibam, also renowned for its stone architecture. The ruins of the ancient city of Baraqish are also worth a day trip.
Getting there
Thula is best reached by private car or shared taxi from Sana'a, with a drive of about two hours. The final kilometers are on a winding mountain road, making a 4x4 advisable.
Insider tip
Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as there is little shade in the alleys. A local guide can reveal hidden corners and share stories about the city's history.
Geography
Facts
- Thula is situated at an elevation of approximately 2,600 meters above sea level.
- The city wall is about 2,000 meters long and features 26 defensive towers.
- The settlement dates back to the Himyarite period (2nd century BC to 525 AD).
- The Thula restoration project won the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2013.
- There are over 25 ancient cisterns within the town used for rainwater harvesting.
- The town's historic perimeter is accessed through nine traditional gateways.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Thula Old City (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Thula historically important?
It is one of the best-preserved fortified cities in the highlands.
Is the city easy to explore on foot?
Yes, the narrow alleys are handy for walking.
What should one try?
Local dishes like Salta are offered in traditional cafes.
How is the best way to arrive?
Best by rental car or taxi from Sanaa.
What is the best season?
Between October and March the weather is most pleasant.
Thula Old City: where is it located?
Thula Old City is located in Yemen.
Thula Old City: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bab al Mayah Gate, Jabal al Jamimah.
Thula Old City: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Oct.
Thula Old City: why is it worth visiting?
Thula is one of the most remarkably preserved historic highland towns in Yemen, located on a plateau at an altitude of approximately 2,600 meters northwest of Sana'a.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Yemen →
Nearby cities
Amran
Amran was originally an ancient Sabaean settlement and is today a bustling commercial center.
Radašinovci
A village in the Dalmatian hinterland near the Vransko Jezero Nature Park, characterized by agriculture and nature.
Drage, Pakoštane
A peaceful village situated between the Adriatic Sea and the Vransko Jezero Nature Park.
Pakoštane
A charming coastal village uniquely situated on a narrow strip of land between the Adriatic Sea and Lake Vrana, Croatia's largest lake.
Vrana
A historic village near Lake Vrana, famous for its Templar fortress and the Ottoman Maškovića Han caravanserai.
Banjevci
A historic village on the edge of the Vrana Lake Nature Park, ideal for birdwatching and nature experiences.
Pristeg
Pristeg is a peaceful village in the Zadar hinterland, known for its traditional stone architecture and agriculture.
Vrgada
The 'Golden Island', known for its sandy coves, dense pine forests, and being completely car-free.
Budak
A village steeped in history in the Zadar hinterland, known for its proximity to significant archaeological sites and traditional viticul…
Kašić
A quiet agricultural village in the Pirovac hinterland, known for its olive groves and proximity to Lake Vrana.
Betina
A picturesque village on the island of Murter, famous for its tradition in wooden shipbuilding.
Stankovci
An authentic Dalmatian village in the Ravni Kotari region, famous for olive oil, wine, and traditional stone houses.
🗺️
Miranje
A village rich in history in the Ravni Kotari region, known for ancient ruins and agriculture.
Crljenik
An authentic Dalmatian village in the Ravni Kotari plain, known for agriculture and hospitality.
Biograd na Moru
A historic royal city on the Adriatic coast, now serving as a major nautical hub and the gateway to the Kornati National Park.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Old City of Thula
The exceptionally well-preserved city of Thula is surrounded by massive stone walls and is one of the most beautiful mountain towns in Ye…
Hababa Cistern
In the heart of the small village of Hababa lies a monumental historical cistern that is still used by the residents today.
Amran Cement Plant
One of the largest cement production facilities in Yemen, supplying building materials for the region.
Shaharah Bridge
The 17th-century stone arch bridge of Shaharah spans a breathtakingly deep gorge between two mountains.
Kawkaban Fortress City
The fortress city of Kawkaban is perched on an extremely steep, almost inaccessible rock plateau at over 2,800 meters altitude.