Al-Nafiea Popular Market in Fifa.. A Mountain Witness to Three Centuries of History
The Al-Nafiea Popular Market in the Fifa Governorate in Jazan maintains its historical status as one of the oldest markets in the mountainous region, with its founding dating back to between 1140 and 1150 AH, making it a living witness to more than three centuries of commercial, social, and cultural life in the Jazan mountains.
The market retains its authentic traditional architectural character, with its shops lining both sides of stone-paved pathways, surrounded by buildings constructed from local stone, reflecting the construction methods for which the Fifa mountains are renowned. Its shops display pottery, lanterns, coffee-making tools, traditional clothing, woven baskets, as well as local agricultural products, most notably Khawlani coffee, natural honey, millet, and local ghee.
At the heart of the market stands the 'Talqah' tree, estimated to be over 700 years old, growing among rocks at an altitude of more than 2,000 meters above sea level. It has been linked to market seasons and successive generations, becoming a firmly established symbol in the memory of the locals, reflecting the deep relationship between humans and their mountainous environment over the centuries.
Yahya bin Hussein Al-Fifi explained that Al-Nafiea Market is the first market in the mountainous region, founded approximately 350 years ago. He noted that throughout its history, it has served as a commercial center for the people of Fifa, neighboring tribes, and residents of Abu Arish Governorate. He pointed out that the market remains active and has seen an increase in visitors in recent years due to the development of the road network leading to it.
Sulaiman Jibran Al-Fifi pointed out that the preservation of the market includes restoring stone buildings, maintaining their architectural details, and reviving traditional crafts. He affirmed that these efforts contribute to highlighting its historical value and strengthening its presence as one of the most prominent heritage sites in the Fifa mountains.
Abdu Al-Makhshami Al-Fifi, who has spent nearly 60 years working in the market, revealed that it still houses rare heritage items, some over 120 years old, including lanterns, utensils, traditional construction tools, and other pieces that reflect the nature of life in the past. He explained that these items attract the attention of visitors and heritage enthusiasts due to their historical value in documenting the social and economic life of the region.
The Jazan region strengthens its presence in the national cultural landscape through its civilizational and knowledge diversity, which forms a basis for specialized studies and research, in line with the goals of preserving heritage and showcasing it for future generations.
Original source: Sabq
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