The houses of Al-Rifai

General information

The houses of Al-Rifai are considered one of the oldest houses in Farasan, reflecting the excellent economic condition of the Farasan people. Built in 1341 AH, these houses are distinguished by the beauty of their designs and the splendor of their detailed inscriptions. Al-Rifai houses were built of trimmed stones, and their walls were designed to reach a height of 6 meters. They are distinguished by a large majlis (sitting room) whose walls are adorned with geometric plaster decorations, extending to the arches of the windows. This is in addition to the presence of Qur’anic verses calligraphy decorations that beautifully embody geometric and epigraphic motifs derived from Islamic arts. Besides the large majlises, homes usually contain a large main gate and small rooms used for cooling water and preserving food.