Taif

Long before the modern era, Taif was known as the "encircled city" because of the great stone walls that protected its lush, green valleys. While most of Arabia was desert, Taif became a legendary mountain oasis where ancient tribes grew grapes, honey, and the world-famous Taif roses. Because of its cool breezes, it eventually became the "Summer Capital" for Saudi kings, who built grand marble palaces like Shubra Palace to escape the heat of Mecca.

The city also holds a deeply moving place in Islamic history. In the year 620 AD, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) travelled to Taif seeking support during a time of great personal loss. Though he faced rejection from the city's leaders, the journey led to the famous story of Addas, a Christian slave who offered the Prophet grapes and embraced his message. Today, the Mosque of Addas stands as a peaceful reminder of this encounter. Walking through the historic Old Town today, you can still feel this blend of royal heritage, spiritual endurance, and the lingering scent of roses.