Pigeon towers can be found in various shapes and sizes all over the Middle East. Their use dates back to the Middle Ages, if not earlier. Far from being a pointless hobby, the towers provided farmers with much-needed fertilizer. They were built from logs and mud. The tower’s eye-catching architectural designs draw visitors from around the world. The design of these towers varies by region, with each variation representing clever adaptations to the geographical and meteorological conditions of the location.
The Ad Dilam set of 14 pigeon towers is distinguished by openings through which birds can enter and exit the towers. On the other hand, the inside is completely covered with niches where pigeons can roost, breed, and find shelter during sandstorms or the hottest months of the year. Wooden beams crisscross the otherwise space between the walls, increasing the structure’s strength and providing more surface area for birds to perch.
History of Pigeon Towers
Pigeon Towers is one of the oldest methods of raising birds. As a result, these intricate structures can be found in various countries, including Saudi Arabia. They have become a tourist attraction in their own right due to their beautiful geometric designs and can often be found in old forts and castles. These towers feature conical shapes and round domes. They usually have rooms with small openings for ventilation and for pigeons to enter to escape the heat outside. Some pigeon tower locations have been used to train the birds to send messages and use their droppings as a natural fertilizer.
Pigeon Towers location
Around 20 pigeon towers were built in the last century near the Al-Sahna neighborhood in Khafas Daghara in Al-Dalam. Tourists visit the towers to take photos and see the wood lattices where the pigeons construct their nests. Visitors appreciate sunlight escaping through the circular openings designed for the birds to enter. Pigeon towers were constructed in the Makkah region’s palm groves 80 years ago to provide natural fertilizer for farmers and a source of income. The 20-meter-tall towers are situated in an agricultural area.
Features of Pigeon Towers
The Pigeon Towers in Makkah and Al-Dalam are considered among the distinguished tourist destinations in Saudi Arabia, characterized by their beautiful and unique design. Historically, these towers were formerly used for breeding pigeons and collecting eggs and were considered part of the cultural heritage in Saudi Arabia. The Pigeon Towers are characterized by its beautiful geometric design reflecting Islamic architecture, featuring many arches, columns, and engravings. The buildings are also known for their vibrant and harmonious colors, adding to their beauty. Overall, The Pigeon Tower in Makkah and Al-Dalam are lovely tourist destinations with beautiful designs and cultural history. In addition, visitors can enjoy the natural scenery surrounding Pigeon Towers in Makkah and Al-Dalam. The surrounding is characterized by the stunning desert and mountains.
In addition to what was mentioned earlier, these towers in Makkah and Al-Dulm have many other features that make them a unique tourist destination, including:
1. Unique geometric beauty
The design of the Pigeon Towers is characterized by beautiful columns, impressive arches, and harmonious decorative engravings, making them a prominent artistic masterpiece.
2. Cultural history
The Pigeon Towers in Makkah and Al-Dulm are part of the cultural heritage of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, reflecting their ancient design and use as a way of life in the region several centuries ago.
3. Stunning natural scenery
These towers are surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. The visitors can enjoy the magnificent desert and beautiful mountains, one of this site’s most important tourist attractions.
4. Comfort and relaxation
Visitors can relax and enjoy the surrounding natural scenery of these Towers, characterized by tranquility and serenity, and they can spend some time in peace and relaxation.
These towers are a distinct and ancient architectural element that can be found throughout Saudi Arabia. They are present particularly in the central region. These towers were once a common sight in traditional Saudi Arabian villages and were constructed to house domesticated pigeons, a crucial source of meat, fertilizer, and feathers.
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Pigeon Towers in Saudi Arabia facts
1. Historical significance
Pigeon towers in Saudi Arabia date back centuries, and their exact origins are unknown. They are introduced by Persian or Indian settlers who brought with them the tradition of pigeon rearing.
2. Usage
They were primarily used for the breeding and harvesting of pigeons. The birds were kept for their meat, which was a valuable source of protein, particularly in areas where other meat sources were scarce. The pigeons also produced fertilizer, used to fertilize crops, and feathers, utilized for pillows and other household items.
3. Symbol of Status
These towers were also a symbol of wealth and social status in traditional Saudi Arabian society. The more towers a family-owned, the more affluent they were regarded.
4. The decline in Usage
The usage of these towers has declined since the demand for pigeon meat has decreased, and the practice of keeping pigeons has become less common. Many these towers have fallen into disrepair or been abandoned, but some have been preserved as cultural landmarks and tourist attractions.
Currently, the towers serve as a reminder of the country’s rich cultural heritage and the traditional way of life. They are a unique and captivating feature of the Saudi Arabian landscape, and visitors to the country should take the opportunity to see them and learn about their history and significance.
Conclusion
The Ad Dilam collection of 14 pigeon towers stands out due to the few openings available for birds. These openings provide access to the towers. However, the interior has features for pigeons to perch, mate, and take refuge during sandstorms. Wooden beams crisscross the otherwise space between the walls. The structure plays an important role in the history and culture of Saudi Arabia.
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Pigeon Towers FAQs
How many Pigeon Towers are there in KSA?
The Ad Dilam collection of 14 pigeon towers is notable for its limited number of openings from where birds can enter and exit the towers
What was the main usage of Pigeon Towers?
They were used to obtain fertilizers from the littering of the birds.
Why Pigeon Towers are a tourist attraction?
They have great architecture, stunning design and surrounded by mountains making them an excellent tourist location.
