Saudi Arabia unveiled on Thursday one of the most important archaeological discoveries in the city of Jeddah, in the western part of the Kingdom.
Al-Shouna Fortress - the most important waterfront of the city 500 years ago - was unearthed after the removal of slum areas and randomly built tenements as part of a major development project.
With the continuation of the excavations, archeologists hope to uncover many historical treasures that belonged to civilizations that have passed through the city since its discovery 3,000 ago.
A report by Saudia Channel noted that the fortress was a sea facade before 1516, and was protected by the presence of solid structures in the western side of the castle.
Eng. Sami Nawar said in the documentary that with the continuation of the excavation works, the old waterfront of the city, which is one of the largest forts in the Red Sea, will be restored.
Ashraf Kamel, General Supervisor of the Historic Jeddah Program, explained that Al-Shouna is an archaeological fortress that was found during the excavation next to Al-Dhahab Street.
“It is an ancient castle that had vanished and no-one knew about it,” he said. “But with time and by reviewing historical documents, a reference to the castle was found and we started excavation works.”
Omar Al-Asmari, a researcher in history and archeology, told Asharq Al-Awsat that this discovery emphasized the historical depth of the Hijaz region, especially the Jeddah border.
“This discovery highlights the importance of the city of Jeddah as one of the most vital ports that nourished the ancient world trade,” he added.
Al-Asmari noted that the discovery represented a qualitative leap for Jeddah’s historical importance and would contribute significantly to the influx of tourists and those interested in history and antiquities.
