Queen Arwa Mosque

The Queen Arwa Mosque in Jibla is a major historical monument dedicated to one of Yemen's most influential female rulers, Queen Arwa al-Sulayhi. It was constructed in the late 11th century, between 1088 and 1099, following the relocation of the Sulayhid capital to Jibla. The mosque's architecture features a square layout with a large central courtyard enclosed by elegant arcades. A unique characteristic of the site is the slightly unusual orientation of its Qibla wall, necessitated by the town's steep topography. In the northwestern corner of the mosque lies the tomb of Queen Arwa, which remains an important pilgrimage destination, particularly for the Ismaili community. The interior is adorned with exquisite woodwork and stucco carvings that reflect the cultural zenith reached during the Queen's 50-year reign. To this day, the mosque functions as an active religious hub and serves as a powerful symbol of the prominent role women have played in Yemeni political and religious history.

Nearby cities

Ibb

Ibb is often referred to as the "green city" of Yemen.

Yarim

Yarim is located on a fertile plateau and was historically a significant resting place for caravans.

Jibla

Jibla was the capital of the Sulayhid dynasty in the 11th century under Queen Arwa.

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Sumara Pass

A dramatic mountain pass known for its winding roads, steep agricultural terraces, and breathtaking panoramic views.

Taiz

Taiz is considered the cultural capital of Yemen, picturesquely situated in the Yemeni highlands.

Susak

A unique sandy island in the Kvarner Bay, famous for its deep loess layers, car-free environment, and a distinct local dialect preserved …

Premuda

The westernmost island of the Zadar archipelago, a paradise for divers and peace-seekers with no car traffic.

Unije (Island)

A tranquil, car-free island in the Cres-Lošinj archipelago, known for its olive groves and rolling hills.

Ilovik

The 'Island of Flowers', a car-free paradise in the Lošinj archipelago with crystal-clear waters.

Mali Lošinj

Nestled in a deep bay, Mali Lošinj is known as the 'Island of Vitality,' famous for its healing climate and the unique Apoxyomenos Museum.

Veli Lošinj

A picturesque harbor town on Lošinj island, famous for its colorful houses and mild healing climate.

Ćunski

A charming village on the island of Lošinj, known for its olive oil tradition and views of the archipelago.

Silba

The 'island of captains' in the Zadar archipelago, a car-free oasis with crystal clear water and the famous Toreta tower.

Dhale

Dhale, also known as Ad Dali, is strategically located on the main road between Aden and Sanaa.

Nerezine

A picturesque port town on Lošinj Island at the foot of Mount Osoršćica, known for its maritime tradition.

History & landmarks

Osor

A historic town located at the bridge connecting the islands of Cres and Lošinj.

More places

Palace of Queen Arwa

The palace of the legendary Queen Arwa al-Sulayhi lies as a historical ruin in the old capital of Jibla.

Green Terraces of Ibb

Thanks to regular monsoon rains, the Ibb governorate is the most agriculturally productive region in the country.

Jabal Sumarah

The mountain pass of Jabal Sumarah in the Ibb Governorate winds through some of Yemen's greenest and most dramatic landscapes.

Taiz Industrial Zone

A major manufacturing and trade center that made Taiz an economic capital.

Taiz Zoo

A significant zoo in the southern highlands, known for its population of Arabian leopards and African lions.

Jabal Sabir

A prominent mountain massif that rises majestically above the city of Taiz, offering fertile terraces.

Dhamar Qat Farms

The agricultural areas around Dhamar are heavily characterized by the cultivation of qat, a plant deeply rooted in Yemeni culture that gr…

Al-Baradouni Park

This urban park in Dhamar is named after the famous Yemeni poet Abdullah al-Baradouni and offers shaded walking paths and flower beds.