Picture the rugged landscape. Imagine the wind whispering tales of centuries past across the Al-Batin valley. This is Duruma a small town northwest of Riyadh.
Duruma boasts a history stretching back to the 7th century. Poets like Jarir mentioned it as Qarma or Garma. Its strategic location made it a crucial western gateway to Wadi Hanifa. This valley encompasses Riyadh and Diriyah. Duruma often faced the brunt of military campaigns aimed at the region.
Its rulers were related to the Al Saud family. Duruma joined the First Saudi State in the late 18th century. Duruma’s bravery shone in 1775. Its people repelled a massive invasion by the Yam tribe from Najran. This fierce battle took place in a nearby palm forest.
Later Duruma resisted the Egyptian-Ottoman forces of Ibrahim Pasha. They even refused a truce. This stubborn defense was eventually broken in 1818. Ibrahim Pasha’s troops pillaged the town mercilessly. Despite this setback Duruma revived. Philby reported nearly 6000 inhabitants in 1917.
However Duruma’s fortunes changed. The modern Riyadh-Mecca highway bypassed it. Many original inhabitants moved to Riyadh. Today Duruma is a quiet reminder of its illustrious past. Its resilient spirit echoes in the valley’s whispers. This small town with a big history deserves our respect and remembrance. The legacy of Duruma stands strong. It reminds us of the enduring strength of a community.