Exploring the Tahlel Museum in Asir: A Glimpse into Old Saudi Heritage
Perched atop the Souda Mountains in the Abha region of Asir province in southern Saudi Arabia lies a hidden gem – the Tahlel Museum. Created by the passionate Asiri woman, Halima Asiri, this modest museum is a tribute to old Saudi heritage.
Halima Asiri, a champion of old Saudi heritage, established the Tahlel Museum in a traditional house resembling old Saudi buildings. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
Filled with a treasure trove of heritage pieces, the museum showcases coins, traditional costumes, wood art, agricultural tools, and the intricate Al-Qatt Al-Asiri paintings. These geometric shapes and tribal symbols painted in vibrant colors hold symbolic meanings passed down through generations.
Halima Asiri shared, “This is my small museum where I exhibit the art of Al-Qatt Al-Asiri, a UNESCO-certified Intangible Cultural Heritage. Women are the sole practitioners of this natural color painting tradition, using colors extracted from coal, rice, turmeric, and more.”
Using natural materials, Halima creates unique Al-Qatt Al-Asiri artworks by grinding 24 colors from nature into a paste to paint canvases and walls. The museum also houses ancient artifacts like coffee and teapots, clay cups, and copper household utensils dating back 400-500 years.
Halima Asiri, the museum owner, preserves the art of Al-Qatt Al-Asiri using natural materials. (AN photos by Rahaf Jambi)
Incorporating a model of her old town within the museum, Halima pays homage to the strength and resilience of Asiri women who endured challenging journeys to their homes. Traditional attire worn by Asir women, including wedding night garments and straw hats, is also on display.
Halima’s passion for collecting antiques from centuries past shines through in the museum’s diverse collection of swords, weapons, and battle clothing. Guests can even participate in workshops to learn the art of Al-Qatt Al-Asiri painting.
The museum is not just a place of preservation but also a cultural hub where visitors can savor traditional Asiri dishes at the attached cafe. Halima proudly welcomes guests with the famous Asiri phrase, “a thousand welcomes,” making everyone feel at home in this oasis of heritage.
With its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, the Asir region continues to attract travelers seeking unspoiled landscapes, charming villages, and a glimpse into the storied past of Saudi Arabia.