Jabal Sirin: A Meeting Point of Coral Reefs and Turquoise Waters Along the Coasts of Makkah

Emerging from the blue waters of the Red Sea stands Jabal Sirin, a mountain rising approximately 500 meters above sea level. (SPA)
Emerging from the blue waters of the Red Sea stands Jabal Sirin, a mountain rising approximately 500 meters above sea level. (SPA)
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Jabal Sirin: A Meeting Point of Coral Reefs and Turquoise Waters Along the Coasts of Makkah

Emerging from the blue waters of the Red Sea stands Jabal Sirin, a mountain rising approximately 500 meters above sea level. (SPA)
Emerging from the blue waters of the Red Sea stands Jabal Sirin, a mountain rising approximately 500 meters above sea level. (SPA)

Emerging from the blue waters of the Red Sea, west of Al-Lith Governorate, stands Jabal Sirin, a mountain rising approximately 500 meters above sea level. Its distinctive formation has made it a favored destination for marine adventure enthusiasts.
Spanning over 1,000 meters in width, the mountain’s beauty is accentuated by the vibrant coral reefs surrounding it, known for their dazzling colors, stunning beauty, and rich biodiversity, reported the Saudi Press Agency.
The vegetation covering the mountain's slopes and summit complements the crystal-clear turquoise waters, creating breathtaking views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Jabal Sirin is not only a unique natural environment but also a sought-after tourist attraction. Its remote location from the mainland and proximity to a cluster of islands in the Red Sea provide visitors with an unparalleled experience of relaxation and exploration.



Ancient Pompeii Excavation Uncovers Lavish Private Bath Complex

A recently discovered complex in the ancient city of Pompeii is seen, in Pompeii, Italy, in this undated handout picture released on January 17, 2025. (Pompeii Archeological Park/ Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities and Tourism/ Handout via Reuters)
A recently discovered complex in the ancient city of Pompeii is seen, in Pompeii, Italy, in this undated handout picture released on January 17, 2025. (Pompeii Archeological Park/ Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities and Tourism/ Handout via Reuters)
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Ancient Pompeii Excavation Uncovers Lavish Private Bath Complex

A recently discovered complex in the ancient city of Pompeii is seen, in Pompeii, Italy, in this undated handout picture released on January 17, 2025. (Pompeii Archeological Park/ Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities and Tourism/ Handout via Reuters)
A recently discovered complex in the ancient city of Pompeii is seen, in Pompeii, Italy, in this undated handout picture released on January 17, 2025. (Pompeii Archeological Park/ Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities and Tourism/ Handout via Reuters)

Archaeologists have unearthed a lavish private bath complex in Pompeii, highlighting the wealth and grandeur of the ancient Roman city before it was destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, the site said on Friday.

The baths, featuring hot, warm and cold rooms, could host up to 30 guests, allowing them to relax before heading into an adjacent, black-walled banquet hall, decorated with scenes from Greek mythology.

The complex lies inside a grand residence that has been uncovered over the last two years during excavations that have revealed the opulent city's multifaceted social life before Vesuvius buried it under a thick, suffocating blanket of ash.

A central courtyard with a large basin adds to the splendor of the house, which is believed to have been owned by a member of Pompeii's elite in its final years.

"This discovery underscores how Roman houses were more than private residences, they were stages for public life and self-promotion," said Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Pompeii Archaeological Park.

Zuchtriegel said the layout recalled scenes from the Roman novel "The Satyricon", where banquets and baths were central to displays of wealth and status.

Decorated with frescoes, the complex draws inspiration from Greek culture, emphasizing themes of leisure and erudition.

"The homeowner sought to create a spectacle, transforming their home into a Greek-style palace and gymnasium," Zuchtriegel said.

The remains of more than 1,000 victims have been found during excavations in Pompeii, including two bodies inside the private residence with the bathhouse - a woman, aged between 35-50, who was clutching jewellery and coins, and a younger man.

The discovery of their bodies was announced last year.