Latest news with #SeiyunPalace
Asharq Al-Awsat
30-06-2025
- General
- Asharq Al-Awsat
SDRPY Implements Restoration of Historic Seiyun Palace in Hadhramaut
After years of deterioration that threatened its survival as a historical symbol, Seiyun Palace in Hadhramaut, eastern Yemen, is regaining its original splendor through comprehensive restoration work led by the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen (SDRPY) to breathe new life into this prominent cultural landmark. Seiyun Palace is a unique architectural masterpiece that gracefully embodies the authenticity of Yemeni architectural design. It has earned a distinguished symbolic status, previously chosen to feature on Yemen's national currency in recognition of its historical, cultural, and aesthetic value, SPA reported. Originally constructed as a fortified stronghold to protect the city of Seiyun, the palace underwent several transformations over time and eventually became the official residence of the sultans of the Kathiri state, who once ruled Wadi Hadhramaut. Despite its historical significance, the palace has not been spared the ravages of time and natural elements. It suffered severe damage, reaching a critical point in 2022 when a large section of its outer wall collapsed, sparking widespread concern over the future of the monument. This incident prompted the local community and authorities to call for its restoration to preserve its identity and beauty. In response to a request from the Yemeni government and in support of its efforts to protect heritage sites, SDRPY launched a comprehensive project to restore Seiyun Palace. The project is funded by the program and implemented by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), in cooperation with the Saudi Ministry of Culture and Yemen's General Organization of Antiquities and Museums, with logistical and technical support from Yemen's Social Fund for Development. The restoration work included repairing the damaged outer wall and the mudbrick structures that form the palace's core. Special attention was given to restoring the wooden ceilings, carved doors, and windows that reflect the craftsmanship of Yemeni artisans. The project also focused on preserving the palace's distinctive architectural identity by rehabilitating its traditional decorations and wall inscriptions. Local teams of engineers and technicians were trained in routine restoration techniques to ensure long-term maintenance. The project represents a step toward enhancing development in Hadhramaut and supporting Yemen's historical and cultural heritage. The palace is now better equipped to welcome large numbers of visitors year-round and to host various cultural events and occasions, making it an important cultural and tourism landmark. The Seiyun Palace restoration project is part of a broader package of 264 projects and development initiatives implemented by SDRPY across various regions of the country. These initiatives span key sectors such as education, health, transportation, energy, water, agriculture, fisheries, institutional capacity building, and integrated development programs.
Arab News
30-06-2025
- General
- Arab News
Saudi-led initiative restores Yemen's iconic Seiyun Palace
RIYADH: After years of deterioration that threatened its survival as a historical and cultural symbol, Seiyun Palace in Hadramout, eastern Yemen, is regaining its original form through restoration led by the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen. Seiyun Palace was once featured on Yemen's national currency due to its importance, the Saudi Press Agency reported. Originally built as a fortified stronghold to protect Seiyun, the palace later became the residence of the sultans of the Kathiri state, who ruled Wadi Hadramout. Despite its significance, the palace suffered damage over time, reaching a critical point in 2022 when a large part of its outer wall collapsed, raising concerns about its future. This led to calls for restoration, according to the SPA. At the Yemeni government's request, the Saudi development program launched a project to restore the palace. Funded by the program and implemented by UNESCO, the effort involved Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture and Yemen's General Organization of Antiquities and Museums, with support from Yemen's Social Fund for Development. Restoration included repairing the outer wall and mudbrick structures. Attention was given to restoring wooden ceilings, carved doors, and windows that showcase Yemeni craftsmanship. The project also preserved the palace's architectural features, including traditional decorations and wall inscriptions. Local engineers and technicians were trained in restoration techniques for ongoing maintenance. This project supports development in Hadramout and the preservation of Yemen's heritage. The palace can now receive visitors and host events, enhancing its role as a cultural and tourism site, the SPA reported. The Seiyun Palace restoration is one of 264 projects by the Saudi development program across Yemen, covering education, health, transportation, energy, water, agriculture, fisheries, and institutional capacity building.
