Climate change in Yemen has caused devastating effects on archaeological landmarks and historic buildings, some of which date back hundreds of years. These impacts are primarily due to unprecedented heavy rains, flash floods, rising temperatures, and droughts.
In recent years, the country has witnessed partial and complete collapses of several historic forts and castles. Cracks and water seepage have caused severe damage to many traditional structures made of mud or burnt brick. Ramzi Al-Dumaini, Director of the National Museum in Taiz, confirmed that the heavy rains have eroded the adhesive material holding mud walls together, leading to gradual collapses.
Among the most affected sites are Shibam Hadramout, Old Sana’a, Zabid, Mokha, and Tarim, where climate change and persistent rainfall have eroded foundations and walls. Historic castles such as Shammar Yahri’ash Castle in Rada’a and Al-Dohi Castle in Hodeidah have partially collapsed, while parts of the wall surrounding the historic city of Thula in Amran have also been damaged.
In Taiz, the gate of the National Museum completely collapsed due to continuous rains, exposing neglect and the lack of maintenance. The uncontrolled growth of trees has destroyed the walls of some archaeological sites, while environmental factors have buried ancient dams, increased humidity and salinity, and severely damaged stones and wooden roofs.
