Abstract

This research investigates the relationship of the traditional architecture of Asir region in Saudi Arabia to dwelling towers of Yemen. The research starts with a brief survey of the most important types of residential architecture in Yemen. lt describes the most visible forms and architectural vocabulary of this architecture with special emphasis on towers. This is followed by a similar survey of the traditional architecture of Asir. The research compares these forms and architectural vocabulary in both regions in their own social and geographical context. The research also exhibits the cyclical migrations northward from Yemen and their influence on the traditional architecture of Asir. It also gives a brief comparison between some architectural elements in Asir and architectural relief’s in ancient temples of South Arabia. The research is supplemented with illustrations and images for better understanding.