Al-Kura' Site, also known as Kura' al-Marou, is an archaeological site located along the historic pilgrimage routes. It is situated within the boundaries of al-Bada'i Governorate in Qassim Province, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The site features elevated, solid sandy terrain that stretches over a long distance from the northern central area towards the south, ending at the historic site of Rama. Its surface is covered with a type of small stone known as al-Marou al-Abyad (white quartz).
Al-Kura' Site has been mentioned by historians in several accounts and witnessed historical events, serving as a base for military camps. The province also includes another Kura' site that stretches from Abraq al-Shaqiqah northward, passing through the east between Rama and al-Rawdah, and reaching al-Ubailah station in al-Bada'i.
In addition to al-Kura' Site, al-Bada'i is home to several archaeological sites, including the Basra Pilgrimage Route, established during the Abbasid era to guide pilgrim caravans to their destinations. The route includes old rest stations known as Manazil and Muta'ashiyat, which now appear as archaeological rings. East of it lies the Rama site, the historic Shubaybah landmark, and the heritage neighborhoods of al-Ubailah and al-Shubaybiyah.
The name of al-Bada'i Governorate originates from the plural form of the word Badi'ah, meaning "unique or exceptional area." It is a relatively modern area, established in 1591. Agriculture dominates the region, with crops such as dates, grains, fruits, and vegetables being harvested. The governorate includes approximately two thousand farms irrigated by around three thousand artesian wells, with depths ranging from sixty to two hundred m.
Related quizzes
Related articles
