RIYADH: In the heart of Al-Wajh’s historic old town, the rawasheen — ornately carved wooden balconies — are enduring symbols of Saudi Arabia’s architectural heritage and climatic ingenuity.
These elegant, protruding structures once lined the homes of coastal residents, offering more than aesthetic beauty, according to a recent Saudi Press Agency report.
Adorned with intricate arabesque patterns and interlocking geometric designs, the rawasheen served a vital function: cooling homes in the sweltering summer heat.
Their design allows outside air to circulate freely while shielding interiors from direct sunlight, functioning as a natural ventilation system long before modern air conditioning.
The ornate balconies in the heart of the historic Al-Wajh governorate symbolize the Kingdom’s architectural heritage. (SPA)
