Taima

Introducing Taima

Taima is famous above all for its extraordinary well (Bi’r Al-Haddaj; 9am-5pm Sat-Wed). Not merely the oldest well in the Kingdom, it’s also the largest, measuring over 18m across and 12m in depth. It is believed to date back to Babylonians time (the early 1st millennium BC), though it may even be older.

Originally, 60 draw-wheels positioned around the rim of the well brought water up from the well bottom to the surface with the aid of camels and ropes. Stone-hewn channels then conducted the water to the labyrinth of gardens that made up the verdant oases, for which Taima was famous. The well is still in use today (except that diesel pumps have replaced the camels!).

The nearby Taima Museum (622 1398; admission free; 9am-5.30pm Sat-Wed) has excellent and informative displays (including photographs, maps and diagrams) on the well and the history and culture of the area, as well as archaeological finds from the region. Look out in particular for the ‘silent visages’ – the mysterious faces carved on Taima’s unique tombstones thought to date to the 5th or 4th century BC.

With time to spare, Taima merits further exploration. One of the largest archaeological sites in the Kingdom, there are a mass of interesting sites, remains and buildings in the area.

In the 1st millennium AD, it was an important caravan stop for the holy cities to and from Damascus. German archaeologists are currently excavating the site.

An agricultural town since ancient times, Taima is known even today for the high quality of its fruit, including pomegranates, figs, peaches, melons and plums.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009