Hegra, or Mada'in Saleh, is an archaeological site located in Al Ula. Once home to an ancient civilization, the site was the kingdom's southernmost and largest settlement after Petra. Visitors can marvel at the remnants of the lost civilisation and natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Importance in Islamic History
Mada'in Saleh is famous for Prophet Saleh (Peace be upon him) and his camel. The people of Thamud lived in Hegra and carved houses inside the mountains, thinking themselves to be invincible. According to Muslim belief, Prophet Saleh was sent to these people to bring God's message. However, the people demanded a miracle, and so a camel came out of the mountains. The Prophet forbade the people to bother the camel, but they did not listen and ended up killing the poor creature. As a result, severe earthquakes destroyed the entire tribe. The land violently shook, destroying all living creatures in it.
Visiting the Site
All the tombs vary in size, from small one-room tombs to bigger ones that can fit multiple people. Some of these tombs are easily accessible, while you have to climb to see some. However, visitors are only allowed to go inside three of them which are easily reachable.
The site has just only recently been opened to tourists, and a ticket is needed to enter it. There is also a bus with a tour guide that takes the tourists to the site. Other than Madain Saleh, you can also check out the railway station museum in Hegra that houses ancient historical artifacts.