Manakha

Manakha is a town located in the Sanaa Governorate of Yemen. It is historically significant as a mountainous stronghold and center of learning, particularly known for its association with the Jewish community of Yemen.

Manakha is situated in the Haraz Mountains, a rugged region west of Sanaa. Its strategic location has historically made it a defensive point. The town's architecture reflects its history and mountainous setting, featuring stone houses and terraced agriculture.

Historically, Manakha was home to a sizable Jewish population, distinct from the Muslim population. This community had a rich cultural and religious life, developing unique traditions and customs within the context of Yemeni Jewish culture. The Jewish community in Manakha engaged in various trades and crafts. Significant emigration, particularly to Israel, has substantially reduced the Jewish population of Manakha.

Economically, Manakha relies on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of coffee and other crops suitable for the mountainous terrain. Tourism also plays a role, attracting visitors interested in the region's history, architecture, and natural beauty.

Modern Manakha is a district center within the Sanaa Governorate, serving as an administrative and commercial hub for the surrounding area. The ongoing conflict in Yemen has impacted Manakha, although specific details regarding its current situation require up-to-date reporting from reliable sources.