BURAIDAH – The historical Marid Palace in Asyah is one of the important heritage sites in Qassim region. It dates back to 10th century Hijrah. It was established by Sultan Marid who was reportedly sent by then Iraqi ruler to establish a military center for the protection of Hajis. According to another report, Sultan Marid rebelled against the Ottomans and came to Asyah with his army and constructed the fort following the design of Marid Palace in Al-Jouf, said a researcher, who requested anonymity. "Despite the passage of several years, the palace still remains a witness to different cultures and civilizations," he told Okaz/Saudi Gazette. Located 3 km east of Ain Bin Fuhaid, the Marid Palace has been neglected by authorities, especially Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTNH). Abdul Aziz Fuhaid urged SCTNH to renovate the palace, which is now covered with dust and some of its parts have disappeared. "Only some walls and pillars of the palace are now existent," he said urging quick action to preserve the palace and construct a paved access road to the site. Khaled Al-Jasser expressed his disappointment over the poor condition of this historical site. "Even the signboard set up by SCTNH has started disappearing. The palace requires special care and attention of the commission and Asyah Municipality," he explained. Al-Jasser described Marid Palace as one of the most important landmarks in the Qassim region. "It's a famous palace. Sultan Marid established it as a military post to give protection to Hajis. Unfortunately, its condition is now pathetic," he told Okaz/Saudi Gazette. It is reported that Sultan Marid was sent to Asyah with an army of 1,000 men to give protection to the Hajis passing through the place from dacoits and other criminal gangs. Some wicked people damaged the palace to make quick money after they heard rumors that gold and silver treasures were hidden inside the facility. These crazy people tried to dig out precious metals in the darkness of the night. As a result the palace lost its beauty. The palace was made of black and burned stones. SCTNH has been advised to consult the elderly in the Qassim region to reconstruct the palace based on their descriptions. Saudi Aramco has reportedly obtained pictures of the palace taken about 70 years ago.
