Some feature Rawashin, a latticed window cover or case that extends out from the building, sometimes decorated with elaborate woodwork. These are a distinctive feature of the old Hijazi architecture in Al-Balad.
The design is a response to the local climate - one that lets breezes in but keeps the sun out. They also preserve the privacy of women and children in their homes.
Because Jeddah was (and is) the gateway to Mecca, many different Muslim cultures helped to shape this architectural style, including the Ottoman and Persian cultures. But now, as western style architecture takes over, and the experts of this old architectural style are being lost, the style has faded.
No captions necessary. Just enjoy the beautiful architecture.
