Matbouli House Museum is a privately owned property located on Al-Qossani Alley in Al-Balad District, Jeddah. This museum was a traditional Hijazi merchant’s home, which has since been converted into a museum. It is almost 400 years old and was designed in the urban architectural style when it was built.
Architecture and Design
The house belongs to a local wealthy family and has been minimally renovated to preserve the authenticity of the place. It has two entrances and four floors and features some stunning wooden-latticed balconies at the front. Inside the house, you will find old gramophones, classic stairwells, beautiful wooden ceilings, antiques, and local artifacts. There is also a bureau for senior guests and a basement that collects rainwater.
A visit to this museum will give an insight into what everyday life in Al Balad looked like back in the day. Unfortunately, some parts of the house, such as the rooftop, are still not open to visitors. However, there are plenty of other parts that are accessible that give you a thorough idea of the centuries-old culture.
Visiting the Museum
The house is unarguably one of the best historical attractions in the region when it comes to peeking into the traditional lifestyle of the ancient Arabs. Be sure to take a guide or a translator who can provide you with the history and importance of the house. With an entrance ticket costing ten riyals per person, this museum is worth a visit.
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