ThePlace: Asfa village in Makkah province

Asfa is a favorite with photographers seeking to capture its historic buildings and architectural heritage. (SPA)

Photo/SPA

• Asfa was established more than 300 years at a time when villages began springing up along the Sarawat mountains

The traditional village of Asfa in Bani Malek, located in the governorate of Maysan in Makkah, has been the center of attention for tourism activists, and is popular with nature and heritage enthusiasts.
The village is known for its architectural features, with stone structures built on giant white rocks and displaying a unique design.
Village buildings have beautiful timber facades that blend with the area’s natural surroundings.
Asfa was established more than 300 years at a time when villages began springing up along the Sarawat mountains.
Houses in the area have large living rooms. similar to a majlis, and other rooms designed for multiple purposes, with open spaces beyond for livestock and farming. Wooden carvings and cultural features reflect the original residents’ tastes and ideas.
Located in the south of Taif, Asfa is a favorite with photographers seeking to capture its historic buildings and architectural heritage.
The village is surrounded by valleys, mountains, farmland and trees, and has a flowing stream, as well as gardens of grapes, figs and almonds.
Asfa’s traditional houses, and its cultural and historical value, are central to efforts to preserve the village for future generations.