Yemeni Architecture

The architecture of Yemen dates to ancient times, when the region formed part of a broader tradition of South Arabian building, and continued developing through the Islamic period with both local characteristics and outside influences. Yemen's historic cities and towns are known above all for their traditional tower houses, built on two or more floors in forms and materials that vary from region to region, using mud in the form of rammed earth or sun-dried mudbrick, stone, or a combination of both, with timber for roofs and floors. A typical tower house separates its functions vertically, with the ground floor given over to practical uses such as storage, the middle floors holding multi-functional living rooms, and the top floor commonly holding a large reception room called a mafraj, positioned to enjoy the best views. Exteriors and interiors were ornamented with gypsum or lime plaster, including bands of geometric motifs formed by whitewashed protruding brickwork at Sanaa and coloured glass set into semicircular fanlights carrying geometric or floral patterns; the style has remained largely unchanged for centuries, kept up through ongoing repair and restoration.