Mada’in Salih (earlier known as Al-Hijr), about 1,111 km west-northwest of Riyadh and about 402 km northwest of Madinah, is one of the not-to-be-missed historical wonders in Saudi Arabia (and unsurprisingly of the whole world). Mada’in Salih occupies a strategic position on the ancient spice route (Frankincense Route). All caravans crossing the area passed by Al Hijr. This area was said to be very fertile with abundant water. Al Hijr was mentioned in various inscriptions of which some dated back to the sixth century BC, all the remaining architectural elements are dated to the Nabataean Civilization that comes between 3rd century BC and the 1st century AD.
In July 2008, UNESCO declared Madain Salih as the World Heritage Site.
According to the Holy Qur’an, the area (Mada’in Salih) was occupied by the people of Thamud (since as early as the year 3000 B.C.) Thamud lived between the times of Prophet Noah and Moses (Peace be upon them).
The name “Al-Hijr” continued to be used until 14th century A.D. Thereafter the area became known as Mada’in Salih. While this name is attributed to one of the Abbasid rulers, many people came to associate it with the Prophet Salih, who is mentioned in the Qur’an as the Prophet who was sent to the people of Thamud.
Courtesy: www.splendidarabia.com