The Governorate of Lahj

 

 

The topography of Lahj varies from high mountains reaching 2500m above sea level as part of As-Sarat mountainous range, to fertile valleys, such as Wadi Tuban, which is one of the most fertile Wadis in Yemen to Plain areas stretching as Far as the Fishing ports at Ra’s Omayrah..Al A’ra and Suqia, which is located to the east of Bab Al-Mandeb strait.

The Center of Lahj Governorate: Al-Houta city which used to be capital of Abadel Sultanate; it is 30km to the north of Aden, located in a fertile valley historically known as Wadi Tuban with a semi-tropical climate. Vast orchards grow various kinds of fruit such as Lemon, Banana, papaya and mango as well as fiber cotton Arayes orchards scented with the lovely scents of blossoms and flowers. Such orchards are frequented as parks by the natives of Lahj and Aden. Sultan Abdali Palace is considered to be the most prominent architectural landmark of Houta city. Lahj is also famous for musical tradition which constitutes a distinct artistic style known as Lahji Lyrical style .The Al-Qumandan (a Famous songwriter) music festival is held once every three years. There are many archaeological and tourist sites in Lahj. Among them are ancient settlement recently discovered at” Wahat” area Lahj Valley.

 

Yafie:

 

Yafie

This is a mostly mountainous area famous for growing Yafie coffee which is among the best coffee in Yemen. The houses in Yafie villages are built with stone and are lofty. The area is well known for a classical style of singing called “ Yafie lyrical style”. In the center of Yafie, Al-Nour Mosque, still stands. Imam Ahmed Bin Al-Hasan Bin Al-Qasim built it in the 17^th century AD.

 

Radfan Mountains:

A highly defensible mountain range, they gained renown as a starting point and stronghold for the resistance movement against the British which started on the 14^th of October 1963. A museum in the area is dedicated to that period.

The most Famous Mountains in Lahj Governorate;

-       Radfan Mountains

-       Yafie Mountains