Discover Khaybar

Just off the main road heading north—about 95 miles outside of Medina—are the remains of Khaybar, a striking oasis that is home to the “Masada of Arabia.” At the summit of what is still known as the “Mountain of the Jews” is the Jewish fortress of Qamos. Essentially forgotten by Jews today, this ancient center of Jewish life is remembered throughout the Muslim world, and particularly by Shia, as the scene of a pivotal battle in early Islamic history.
Khaybar was divided into three districts—Nataah, Shaq, and Katibah—each of which contained several villages and citadels, often perched on the high ground overlooking the extensive date palm groves, corn fields, and other crops below. The region’s volcanic soil and moderate climate made it well-suited for agriculture. In addition to cultivation, the residents were accomplished traders, metal workers, and silk garment producers. These highly prized skills enabled Khaybar to thrive and amass great wealth, especially in comparison to the other communities of the Hijaz.