The House of Ahmed bin Munawar al-Rifa’i

This house represents a remarkable heritage landmark that captivates visitors with its authenticity and rare decorations. It is attributed to Ahmed bin Munawar al-Rifa’i, one of the ancient pearl merchants in Farasan.

It is located in the residential district in the centre of Farasan Governorate, surrounded by houses on all sides. It was constructed in 1341 AH using carefully dressed local stone, roofed with imported Javanese timber, and plastered internally and externally with gypsum.

The house consists of a rectangular room and some facilities attached. The room is called the "Murabba'a," the most important part of the house, as it is used as a family room and for hosting guests.

It was built in a unique manner for the region, as its exterior walls were covered with geometric gypsum decorations of immense splendour and artistic richness.

These decorative elements become more elaborate when visitors enter the room, where the walls adorned with gypsum ornamentation and prominent Quranic calligraphic bands, along with an arched lintel above the door from the inside, with foundation inscriptions and poetic verses.

The decorations were not confined to the walls of the "Murabba'a", but also extended to its ceiling which was constructed of imported Javanese timber, embellished with vivid polychrome decoration. It is also decorated with magnificent geometric engravings, making the room appear as an integrated decorative painting.

In addition to this main room, there are facilities on the western side and a sitting bench. On the northern side, there is a bathroom and a washroom, reflecting the integration of the house's elements, making it an exquisite architectural model that combines precision and beauty.