The Expanded Narrative
Bayt Athtar is a sanctuary associated with standing stones popularly called Banaat Athtar, referring to columns or votive stelae on which vows and offerings were placed.
The spirit of ritual
Bayt Athtar is a sanctuary associated with standing stones popularly called Banaat Athtar, referring to columns or votive stelae on which vows and offerings were placed.
Architectural features
- Standing stones marking the sanctuary’s bounds
- Carved lintels and brief inscriptions
- A passage leading from the square to the place of offering
- Channels for draining water and protecting the lintels
Historical narrative
Athtar is linked to the astronomical cycle, cultivation and rain in southern Arabia. He was the god of fertility and rain, heading the South Arabian pantheon. The votive formulas show the community’s relationship with the moon, the stars and the timing of seasons.
Sanctuary of Athtar, god of fertility and rainStanding stones called Banaat AthtarHead of the South Arabian pantheonA passage leading to the place of offering
