Mada'in Saleh, Saudi Arabia 2013

An area built by the Nabateans two thousand years ago. It was the second largest city after Petra, which was their capital, and was their Southernmost city being 500 kilometers Southeast of Petra. It was once a very rich and powerful place but has long been abandoned.

Portrait of an Author

Resting and taking in some of the views of Mada'in Saleh. Rest is needed as it is bloody hot. I considered laying in one of the tombs for a nap as they were cool and unoccupied, but decided better of it.
Photo by Traveler/Photographer M. Davis Clarke

Mushroom Crowned

One of these tombs looks like a giant mushroom, but I take an oath that it is not.
Photo by Traveler/Photographer M. Davis Clarke

Plot Pickin'

I was not impressed with the interiors, for maybe I had expected too much. Was I out of line expecting a mummy or pile of gold?
Photo by Traveler/Photographer M. Davis Clarke

High Hole

This might be deceiving at first, but before you think that the people could fly, remember that these ruins are older than your father so perhaps                               the steps have been washed away. 

                   Photo by Traveler/Photographer M. Davis Clarke

A Travellers Perspective

Looking out over the beautiful and mysterious landmarks that make up Mada'in Saleh. I am standing if front of the largest tomb, carved into the rock.
Photo by Traveler/Photographer M. Davis Clarke

Necropolis of Mada'in Saleh

A typical scene of what most of Mada'in Saleh is comprised of. One hundred and thirty one monumental tombs cut into the rocks.
Photo by Traveler/Photographer M. Davis Clarke

Three of a Kind

The tombs all have a small room inside for the deceased and possibly his family. All of the work and impressiveness appears to have been reserved for outside appearances. The inside is pretty much just a hole, or tomb if you will.
Photo by Traveler/Photographer M. Davis Clarke

One Size Doesnt Fit All

As you can see, every facade is different from the next. In height, design, and style.
Photo by Traveler/Photographer M. Davis Clarke

Bulbous Rock

This stand-alone-rock, is just one of the many types of rock formations that are located deep within Mada'in Saleh.
Photo by Traveler/Photographer M. Davis Clarke

Giant Facade

Located deep within Mada'in Saleh is this giant facade well carved and well preserved on a huge rock formation. It appears that it is, and always has been, human nature to impress and outdo the neighbors.
Photo by Traveler/Photographer M. Davis Clarke

Alien Landscape

The rock formations and landscape of Saudi Arabia change very rapidly. Within Mada'in Saleh is no exception.
Photo by Traveler/Photographer M. Davis Clarke

Necropolis of Mada'in Saleh

A typical scene of what most of Mada'in Saleh is comprised of. One hundred and thirty one monumental tombs cut into the rocks.
Photo by Traveler/Photographer M. Davis Clarke

It's This Big

Carved in one of the many rock formations was this great room. Said to be a room for prayers or meetings, this vast space is extremely well preserved, despite not having a fourth wall to keep the elements out.
Photo by Traveler/Photographer M. Davis Clarke