Dadan

One of the most exciting displays is more than a dozen tombs cut into the red-rock cliff faces, east of the city. From afar, these look like simple dark rectangles. A closer look reveals skilfully crafted funerary monuments, including the seated lion sculptures that mark the famous Lion Tombs. Lions symbolised power and protection and may have marked the burial of an elite member of society, perhaps even a member of royalty. These tombs are up to 50 metres above ground level, spurring the imagination of how they were carved without modern construction equipment.

As a modern visitor to Dadan, you will discover evidence of defence, agricultural and water-management innovations. Even the date palms grown as crops can still be seen here today.

Inscriptions feature terms relating to agriculture, including the seasons, types of produce, water and parcels of land. Around this ancient valley, you can observe other inscriptions in Dadanitic. These writings detail the everyday lives of these once-great civilisations, from their religious practices and social activities, to the laws and edicts that governed them.

Discoveries of sculptural items through archaeological excavations in Dadan, suggests that a sculpture school or workshop may have existed in the area. Several statues are life-sized or larger, with some measuring up to 2.7-metres tall. They are all similar in appearance, depicting men with strong limbs, defined stomachs and broad shoulders, with hands clenched, the left foot forward and a stern gaze. Researchers do not know exactly who the statues represent, but it is likely they were carved for high-status members of society.

To avoid disappointment, we recommend you book Dadan tickets online before arrival. 

Alternatively, you may purchase your tickets at the information desk located at Winter Park, before starting your experience at the Dadan visitor centre.