Sanaa

Sanaa

General Information
Name	Sanaa
Native Name	صنعاء
Other Names
Settlement Type	Capital city
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates	15°21 N°44
Map
Population
Total
Density	per km²
Area
Total	km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC
DST	UTC

Sanaa (Arabic: صنعاء , Ṣanʿāʾ) is the largest city in Yemen and the center of the Sanaa Governorate. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history that dates back over 2,500 years. Sanaa is situated in a mountain valley at an altitude of 2,300 meters (7,500 ft), making it one of the highest capital cities in the world.

History

Sanaa has a rich history that is intertwined with the history of Yemen itself. According to local legend, it was founded by Shem, the son of Noah. The city has been an important center of Islamic culture and learning since the 7th century. During the Umayyad Caliphate, Sanaa became a major center for the spread of Islam.

In the 9th century, Sanaa was the capital of the Ziyadid dynasty, and later it became part of the Rassid dynasty. The city was a major hub for trade and commerce, connecting the Arabian Peninsula with Africa and Asia.

Architecture

Sanaa is renowned for its unique architectural style, characterized by multi-story buildings made of rammed earth (adobe) and decorated with intricate geometric patterns. The Old City of Sanaa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its distinctive tower houses, mosques, and souks (markets).

The Great Mosque of Sanaa, one of the oldest mosques in the world, is a significant landmark. The mosque was originally built in the 7th century and has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries.

Culture

Sanaa is a cultural hub in Yemen, known for its traditional music, dance, and cuisine. The city hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating Yemeni heritage and arts. The Sanaa International Film Festival is one of the notable events that attract filmmakers and artists from around the world.

Economy

The economy of Sanaa is primarily based on trade, agriculture, and services. The city is a major center for the production and trade of qat, a plant whose leaves are chewed for their stimulant effects. Despite the ongoing conflict in Yemen, Sanaa remains an important economic center.

Education

Sanaa is home to several educational institutions, including Sanaa University, which is the largest and oldest university in Yemen. The university offers a wide range of programs in arts, sciences, and professional studies.

Challenges

Sanaa faces numerous challenges, including political instability, economic difficulties, and humanitarian issues. The ongoing conflict in Yemen has severely impacted the city's infrastructure and living conditions. Access to basic services such as healthcare, education, and clean water is limited for many residents.

Also see

• Yemen
• Old City of Sanaa
• Sanaa University
• Qat
• Great Mosque of Sanaa