Yemen, located on the southwest tip of the Arabian Peninsula, is a country with a rich and ancient history, dating back to the kingdoms of Saba, Qataban and Main. Once a crossroads of trade routes linking Arabia, Africa and Asia, Yemen thrived on the production of frankincense and myrrh. In the Middle Ages, the city of Zabid was a center of Islamic knowledge and culture. The magnificent mud skyscrapers of Shibam, nicknamed “Manhattan of the Desert”, and the traditional houses of Sanaa, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bear witness to the unique architecture of Yemen. Today, despite recent difficulties, Yemen remains a land where ancestral culture and traditions are deeply rooted.
Yemen is a captivating destination, full of mystery and beauty, where traditions and hospitality remain pillars of daily life.
Traditional Gastronomy and Gluten Free Options
Yemeni cuisine is marked by dishes rich in flavor, often simmered with local spices and herbs. The basis of meals is meat, vegetables and bread, but many traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free, provided you choose the right accompaniments.
Here are some naturally gluten-free Yemeni dishes:
- Saltah : A dish of simmered meat, often lamb, served with a fenugreek-based sauce called hulbah and spicy broth. This dish can be eaten with rice for a gluten-free option.
- Fahsa : A lamb stew with herbs and spices, usually served with rice or millet.
- Maraq : A light meat-based soup, garnished with cardamom, turmeric and coriander.
- Bint al-Sahn : A traditional puff cake, sometimes made without wheat flour using alternative flours for a gluten-free version.
These dishes show the richness and simplicity of Yemeni cuisine while being suitable for a gluten-free diet.
The Must-See Things to Visit in Yemen
Yemen is a land of varied landscapes, between deserts, mountains and historic cities. Here are some must-see places to discover:
- Sanaa : Yemen's capital, with its mud houses adorned with geometric patterns and bustling souks, is an architectural gem listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Shibam : Nicknamed “Manhattan of the desert,” this city is famous for its multi-story mud towers, a unique example of ancient urban architecture.
- Socotra Island : Known for its exceptional biodiversity, this archipelago is home to surreal landscapes and unique plant species, such as the dragon-blood tree.
- Al-Hajarah : A village perched in the mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and a glimpse of traditional Yemeni life.
These destinations bear witness to the beauty and millennial history of Yemen, a land of contrasts and wonders.
