34 Forgotten Ancient Ruins That Deserve More Attention

18. Thula, Yemen: A Pre-Islamic Time Capsule

Hidden in the highlands north of Sana’a, Thula is one of Yemen’s best-preserved ancient towns—a stone-carved citadel that feels frozen in time. With roots tracing back to the Himyarite Kingdom (110 BCE – 525 CE), this fortified settlement reveals a rare continuity of pre-Islamic urban planning, architecture, and water engineering. Narrow alleyways wind between towering stone homes, many of which are still inhabited, and ancient rainwater cisterns continue to serve local needs. Thula’s most iconic features include its multi-story stone towers, crenelated walls, and beautifully preserved city gates, offering an immersive experience into Yemen’s architectural legacy. Its strategic hilltop location offers sweeping views of terraced farmland and desert plains, reminding visitors of the ingenuity required to thrive in such terrain. Though access has been limited in recent years due to political instability, Thula remains a cultural treasure—a resilient city where ancient and modern coexist in harmony, awaiting the return of travelers.