Shibam or officially the 'Old Walled City of Shibam' is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Surrounded by a fortified wall, the 16th-century city of Shibam is one of the oldest and best examples of urban planning based on the principle of vertical construction. Its impressive tower-like structures rise out of the cliff and it is often referred to as ‘the Chicago or Manhattan of the desert’.
 
"Of the 3 different day trips I made from Sanaa, the one to Shibam and Kawkaban left the fondest memories. Shaibam which had been the capital of Yemen between 845 to 1004 AD was a busy, interesting place with homes built into the rocks and a fine mosque, but it was the climb up and visit to Kawkaban I really enjoyed. Built as a fortress retreat for Shibam in times of trouble, it was located on a large rocky outcrop, its only gate still being locked at night. I found being there an intriguing experience and the magnificent views one got of the surrounding valley certainly made the climb worthwhile." - MH