{
  "id": 7210010,
  "title": "Heritage Commission concludes fourth excavation season at Al-Ma'mala site in Al-Baha",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/14/heritage-commission-concludes-fourth-excavation-season-at-al-mamala",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-14T00:32:39.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Ajel English",
    "slug": "ajel-english",
    "url": "https://english.ajel.sa/lifestyle/15folv1gb"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Heritage Commission in Saudi Arabia has concluded its fourth season of archaeological excavations at the Al-Ma mala site in Al-Baha. This effort is part of the Kingdom's commitment to preserving its national heritage, showcasing its diverse archaeological and architectural features, and boosting public cultural awareness, as outlined in Saudi Vision 2030.\n\nDuring this season, an ancient mosque from the first century AH was discovered in the western residential area of the site. The mosque, constructed from finely cut granite stones, showcases a unique design with a mihrab, entrances, and minaret. Measuring 16 meters from north to south and 10 meters from east to west, it is surrounded by several stone rooms that served social and commercial functions. Notable artifacts include fragments of soapstone and pottery vessels, as well as stone tools like grinders and pestles, providing insights into the daily life and skills of the site's former inhabitants.\n\nAl-Ma mala is renowned for its historical mining activities, producing gold, silver, and copper. The site holds tools and facilities from various mining eras, indicating its economic importance during the Islamic period. Organic samples suggest mining began before Islam, with peak activity from the late sixth to ninth century CE. Previous findings reveal a progression from surface mines to regional smelting centers, culminating in early economic towns, showcasing the area's evolving economic activities. The Heritage Commission remains dedicated to ongoing archaeological surveys and excavations across the Kingdom, emphasizing the importance of protecting and promoting the national cultural heritage to strengthen Saudi Arabia's identity and historical significance.",
  "summary": "Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission has completed the fourth season of archaeological excavations at the Al-Ma'mala site in Al-Baha, uncovering key historical finds.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}