Jazan’s Carved Stadium: A Symbol of Creativity and Determination
In the heart of Al-Dayer governorate, a stadium carved into the Hashr Mountains honors human creativity and celebrates the local landscape.
The Birth of a Sporting Marvel
The origin of this architectural marvel began in 1994, when a group of neighbors led by Mohammed Harian decided to build a sports field in the mountainous terrain. With limited space available, they started with a rough field, but it was soon clear that a more ambitious undertaking was required.
“We live in a difficult mountainous area that lacks wide spaces, and we could hardly find any space to practice any sport,” Harian explained in an interview with Arab News. “We created a basic field, but it was just a corner to play in. At that time, we couldn’t enjoy playing football, so we resorted to playing other games instead.”
Overcoming Challenges
Harian and his team persevered, and over the years, they expanded their vision, eventually carving out Al-Hashr Stadium from the mountain itself. However, the imaginative project was not without difficulties, and early attempts were met with opposition from some locals.
“Initially, the idea annoyed some residents, so we implemented it in a lower area,” Harian said. “But we did not give up. We worked on it at our own expense, and with the help of donors and players, we were able to bring the project to life.”
A Labor of Love
The construction took years and was a labor of love performed by the locals, with Harian leading the charge due to his expertise in construction. The finished stadium spans 60 by 94 meters and is capable of accommodating thousands of spectators. Its design, reminiscent of both Roman amphitheaters and traditional agricultural terraces, has captured the attention of officials and visitors alike.
A Premier Sports and Tourist Destination
The stadium has hosted numerous events, showcasing the region’s athletic talent. Plans for enhancements, including landscaping and lighting, are in place to solidify its status as a premier sports and tourist destination. As Harian looks to the future, he hopes that the man-made marvel will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come.
A symbol of creativity and determination, Jazan’s carved stadium is attracting visitors from across the Kingdom, making Al-Dayer governorate a sought-after tourist and sports hub.