Jabal Ithlib

Jabal Ithlib is a complex of rocky mountains located in the heart of Hegra, Al Ula. Home to a large number of inscriptions, shrines, and altars, it is believed to have been an important religious center for the Nabataean people of Al Ula.

On the right at the Jabal Ithlib complex’s entrance is a large, open hall cut into the rock. This is the Diwan, where Nabataeans are believed to have gathered to discuss religious and political issues, perform rituals, and feast together as a community. Rock-cut benches line the three sides of the hall.

A narrow, naturally formed passageway called the Siq Canal leads from the Diwan into the Jabal Ithlib complex, where numerous inscriptions are carved into the rocks. Over 100 inscriptions in various languages have been found in Jabal Ithlib.

The Siq Canal and the rocks within the complex also feature niches and altars that once housed figures of deities that the Nabataeans worshipped. These figures were usually sacred stones or baetyl, which points to the complex’s religious significance.

The rocks of Jabal Ithlib also feature a water channel that runs from one of the rocks in the complex into a cistern below. This channel is part of the advanced water management system the Nabataeans implemented nearly 2,000 years ago.