Tourism in Democratic Yemen/Tourisme au Yemen Democratique/Tourismus im Demokratischen Jemen [antikvár]

INTRODUCTION For the second time, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen presents, through the intermediary of the General Tourist Office, this compendium of travel information, constituting a valuable work of reference and a reliable guide for all visitors to this country, helping them to appreciate its ancient civilization and its tourist attractions. The pages that follow contain much information of major interest, illustrated by colour photographs highlighting Yemen's rich archaeological patrimony: remains of ancient buildings, important historical documents, and other vestiges of the Yemenite civilization of the past, dating back thousands of years and testifying to the nobility of human endeavour from earliest times up to the recent emergence of modern Yemen. Over the centuries, several Yemenite dynasties succeeded one another, among them the Main, Sabaa, Awssan, Hadramut, Qataban and Himyar, during which lime advanced civilizations developed, bringing with them irrigation, dams, architecture, arts and crafts, and cultural achievements in general -all contributing to the evolution of human civilization from its origins to the present day. All these riches of the past which were the work of Yemenites and which can still be seen today: sculptures, temples, fortresses, dams and rare manuscripts discovered in the course of excavations which are still in progress, confirm the genius of our civilization. In addition to these archaeological treasures of inestimable value we encounter evidence of the most authentic Arab civilization which has aroused the interest of historians and research workers. All of which makes Yemen a land of outstanding appeal for tourists for whom a journey through history holds an irresistible fascination. This new tourist guide introduces the visitor not only to our civilization but also to such attractions as the characteristic architecture of Yemenite villages, mineral springs, and immense beaches of golden sand lapped by limpid waters - for a large part of Yemen lies on the shores of the Red Sea, not far from the Arabian Sea, making the country a priveleged place for relaxation in pleasant surroundings. This book brings alive the ancient history of Yemen in the perspective of the Yemen of the future. It will accompany you on your voyage of discovery, and will serve as a valuable introduction to our admirable country, the cradle and the glorious manifestation of civilization. RACHID MOHAMED SABET Member of the Central Committee of the Yemenite Socialist Party Minister of Culture and Tourism