Overview
Riyadh is the capital city of Saudi Arabia and is the country's largest metropolis. It is the traditional homeland of the ruling Saud family. Riyadh is an increasingly modern city with many roads and modern transportation networks. At the seat of governance, there are numerous scenic monuments and an active local social environment. The King Abdul Aziz Historical Area features outdoor gardens and the 100 Palms Park underneath the famous Water Tower landmark, as well as the new National Museum and Al-Murabba Palace. The former is a stunning architectural monument, opened in 1999, which was built to celebrate the centennial of Saudi unification. Its eight galleries explore Arabian civilization from 6000 BC to the present. Its outdoor landscaped gardens are popular after sunset, when families come to enjoy the cool evening air. King Abdul Aziz held court in Al-Murabba Palace in the 1930s, when it was built. An example of more traditional Riyadh architecture, Al-Murabba Palace gives a powerful, chronological glimpse into the culture and society of Saudi Arabia.
