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Dhamar, Yemen

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Dhamar is a significant city located in south-western Yemen. It serves as the capital of the Dhamar Governorate. The city sits within the Dhamar basin on high, flat plains. It is positioned at a high elevation above sea level. To the south of the city lies Sanaa. To the north, you will find the city of Ibb. Al-Bayda' is located to the west of Dhamar.

A volcanic field known as the Harras of Dhamar extends to the east. This landscape defines the physical setting of the region.

The city has a deep history tied to ancient Arabian royalty. It was built by the legendary Himyarite King Dhamar Ali Yahbir II. The city takes its name from King Dhamar Ali Yahbur. He ruled the kingdoms of Saba' and Dhu-Raydan from 135 to 175 AD. This king is well-known for restoring the great dam of Ma’rib.

Dhamar Ali Yahbur (bust)
Dhamar Ali Yahbur (bust)

Archaeologists once found a statue of him at Al-Nakhla Al-Hamra'a. This site is also considered an important archaeological location near the city.

Historically, Dhamar was a major hub for culture and intellect. It was a prominent center for Islamic studies and various sciences. Many famous scientists are linked to this historical town. Antique Yemeni engravings even mention the city as a famous center for learning. The city's religious history is also quite old. The Great Mosque was constructed during the period of the caliph Abu Bakr.

Economic and social activities shaped the city's early development. In past times, the people of Dhamar were famous for horse-breeding. The city was an early center for raising horses in Arabia. It also functioned as a vital meeting place for local tribes. The town prospers as a Wednesday market for the surrounding people. This market helps connect different groups through trade and social interaction.

The architecture of Dhamar is quite distinctive. The city is known for its numerous historical mosques and schools. These buildings feature a characteristic style of architecture. This design works in harmony with the colors of the volcanic land.

Unlike many other ancient towns in former North Yemen, Dhamar is unique. It is the only town not surrounded by a defensive wall. It is not protected by natural defensive formations either. Instead, it exists as a settlement spread across the plains.

Today, Dhamar remains a center for education and modern life. It is home to the University of Thamar. This institution is the largest university in the country.

The city sits on a main road that connects Sanaa to several other governorates. This location helps it maintain its role in Yemen's political and economic life. The climate in the area is classified as a cold semi-arid climate. This is known scientifically as a BSk climate under the Köppen classification.

There are also interesting connections between Dhamar and other traditions. Rosicrucians associate the name with a mystical city called Damcar. This city is described in the Fama Fraternitatis. According to these accounts, Damcar was inhabited by scholars and alchemists. These people studied the lost secrets of Solomon and Hermes Trismegistus. They were even said to be visited by Christian Rosenkreuz. This shows how the name of the city has traveled through different cultural ideas.

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File:Dhamar Ali Yahbur (bust).jpg
Dhamar Ali Yahbur (bust).jpg
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