Part 6/9:
Building practices within Shibam exhibit incredible resourcefulness given the environment’s challenges. With soaring temperatures and minimal access to timber, residents utilize locally available materials to create mud bricks through a mixture of sandy soil, clay, and straw, able to withstand the test of time—some structures can last for 300 years. The architecture also reflects intimate knowledge of the climate, promoting airflow and minimizing sun exposure, thereby fostering a suitable living environment.