The courtyard in the mill: the history of traditional heating and the aesthetics of decoration
Traditional architecture in the Al-Baha region has always been distinguished by its unique engineering ingenuity. The design of old residential buildings cleverly adapted to the harsh environmental and climatic conditions, especially during winter when the Sarawat Mountains are shrouded in fog and bitter cold. Given the lack of modern technology in the past, the inhabitants relied on stone construction to ensure thermal insulation and devised safe and practical heating methods that aligned with the region's long-standing social customs and traditions.
The nation: the beating heart of the home
Perhaps the most distinctive feature of these heritage buildings was the presence of the "mullah," which was not merely a means of heating, but rather the cornerstone of the living space, the kitchen, and the gathering place for evening conversations during the long winter nights. The mullah served as the lifeblood that brought the family together, providing warmth and a space for preparing popular traditional dishes and Arabic coffee in a warm, familial atmosphere that reflected the depth of social cohesion.
In this context, Mohammed Musfer Al-Ghamdi, owner of the Al-Akhawain Museum, spoke, highlighting this heritage, saying: “In the past, we had no means of heating except the fire, as we used to sit around it to warm ourselves and make popular dishes such as fire bread and mashriq, and drink coffee amidst a wonderful family winter atmosphere.”.
Engineering tools and details
Al-Ghamdi elaborated on the architectural design of the clay oven: “The oven is built in a corner of the house. It consists of a section, approximately one to one and a half meters in length, made of reinforced clay. Inside, the ‘kanun’ is placed. The kanun is a pure iron stand, square, triangular, or circular, with legs. The ‘tarwa’ or cooking pot is placed on it while firewood burns beneath it.” He also mentioned the presence of the ‘saj,’ a long-handled, pure iron griddle used for pouring dough and baking the bread known as ‘mashriq.’.
Coffee rituals and hospitality
The coffee pot's function wasn't limited to heating and baking; it was also deeply intertwined with the traditions of Arab hospitality. Al-Ghamdi continued explaining the tools used: “The ‘mijraf,’ a hollow, circular iron tool, is used to roast the coffee over the fire, accompanied by the ‘mihmas’ for stirring the beans. The coffee is ground using a copper mortar and pestle.” It's worth noting that the sound of the coffee being pounded in the mortar served as an open invitation to neighbors and guests to partake in the coffee, reflecting the deeply rooted values of generosity within the community.
From a vital necessity to a modern decor
With the evolution of life and the introduction of electricity and modern heating methods, the traditional wood-burning stove (known as a "mullah") did not disappear; rather, its function transformed. Today, the "mullah" has become an important decorative element in modern villas and palaces, known as the "mashb" or stone fireplace. This feature has become an indispensable aesthetic element in modern Saudi homes, not only for its heating function but also as a symbol of identity and a way to preserve heritage. The younger generation is keen to acquire it as part of their decorative style, connecting the present with the charm of the past.
