Al-Balad, the Old City in the Wild Cosmopolitan

Al-Balad, or the old city of Jeddah is one of the attractive tourist destinations which eman (unfortunately) to be passed. It literally means the city of Al-Balad. It is a historic district and popular tourist destination in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, Jeddah is the second largest city of this country after the capital Riyadh.

Al-Balad reminiscent of ancient cities are perpetuated in the tales of Arabian Nights and has become part of nearly every boy's childhood. This area is really interesting to be targeted in the list of your tour in Saudi Arabia.

Historically, about 2,500 years ago, Al-Balad is a fishing village. This is where the tribes of fishermen residing Quda'a first. As time goes by, this small village has grown into a cosmopolitan city that blends Arab traditionalism and Western luxury. Now, Al-Balad became the central headquarters of several important companies Arabia, and the commercial center of the country.

As a popular attraction of Saudi Arabia, Al-Balad is a paradise for shoppers (shopaholic). Al-Balad Maybe not as grand and fancy shopping centers in the West, yet he is the best place for shopping in Saudi Arabia.

Al-Balad is a large market featuring traditional street markets, street vendors until the centers and retail outlets. Tourists can buy almost all kinds of products in the small town, ranging from traditional handicrafts to international brands.

But for those of you that are less fond of shopping, one of the tourist attractions that can be enjoyed is a walk through the town while enjoying the exotic old buildings are still preserved and looks sturdy.

This old city was first built in the 7th century, and aims as the center of Jeddah. But in the 1940s, the city walls that protect this area was demolished. In 1970 up until the 1980s-when the Jeddah began booming oil-rich because many residents of Jeddah who moved north, away from Al-Balad because it is considered less offers prosperity.

Jeddah city itself is located in western Saudi Arabia, overlooking the Red Sea, with a total area of ​​800 square kilometers. Jeddah grown into the most important cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, along with the increasing status as a center of economic, industry and trade.

Jeddah comes from the Arabic for grandmother. This refers to Eve-wife of the Prophet Adam (first human)-are said to be buried in the city. When Islam appeared in the Arabian Peninsula, Jeddah is closely related to the historical development of Islamic religion, since he became the Two Holy Mosques gate by sea.

Source:www.republika.co.id