Archers' Hill, known in Arabic as Jabal ar-Rumat, is a small rocky rise on the Uhud battlefield in north Madinah, directly opposite Mount Uhud in Saudi Arabia's Al Madinah Region. Tradition identifies it as the position held by a group of archers during the Battle of Uhud in 625 CE, and it is one of the main stops on the Uhud ziyarah alongside the martyrs' cemetery. The hill is low and bare, with a short, well-trodden path leading to the top. Visitors who make the brief climb are rewarded with a clear view across the flat battlefield towards the dark, reddish bulk of Mount Uhud, which makes it the best vantage point in the area for understanding the layout of the site and for photographs of the mountain. A signboard at the base summarises the events in Arabic and English. Most visitors spend 20 to 30 minutes here, often combined with a stop at the martyrs' cemetery and the mountain itself, which are a few minutes apart. The site is free and open throughout the day, but there is little shade, so late afternoon between October and March is the most comfortable time. Midday in summer is very hot, and the slope has loose stones, so sturdy shoes are advisable. Tour buses and the Hop-On Hop-Off service bring groups in the morning and after the midday prayer, so the hill can be crowded then, while the hour before sunset is quieter and offers softer light. Small vendors sell water, dates and souvenirs near the base. The hill lies outside the sacred precinct of Masjid an-Nabawi, so visitors of all faiths can see it. Visitors are asked to dress modestly and to treat the nearby cemetery with respect.
| Best time | Late afternoon, October to March |
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Highlights
- Short climb to a view across the Uhud battlefield
- Best vantage point for photographing Mount Uhud
- Traditional position of the archers at the Battle of Uhud
- Easy to combine with the martyrs' cemetery and the mountain
Tips for visiting
- Go in the late afternoon from October to March for cooler air and softer light.
- Wear sturdy shoes; the slope has loose stones.
- Carry water, since shade is scarce.
- Allow 20 to 30 minutes, longer if combined with the cemetery.
- Dress modestly and keep voices low near the cemetery.
- Arrive by taxi, ride-hail or the Hop-On Hop-Off bus.
When to visit
Late afternoon from October to March, when it is cooler and the light on Mount Uhud is best. Mornings after prayers are busiest with tour groups.
Accessibility
The path is short but uneven and rocky, so it is difficult for wheelchair users; the base and viewpoint at street level can be seen without climbing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Archers' Hill?
A small rise on the Uhud battlefield traditionally linked to the archers' position in the Battle of Uhud in 625 CE.
Is there an entrance fee?
No. The hill is an open site and is free to visit.
How long does a visit take?
About 20 to 30 minutes, including the short climb and photographs.
Can non-Muslims visit?
Yes. The hill lies outside the sacred precinct of Masjid an-Nabawi.