The Southern Gates of Arabia

Set in 1934, this travel narrative follows Freya Stark's adventurous quest through the Hadhramaut Valley, where she aims to uncover the lost city of Shabwa. Her journey is rich with encounters involving local sheikhs and sultans, reflecting both the beauty and challenges of the region. Despite not being the first to discover Shabwa, Stark's vivid storytelling and insights into Arabian culture make this work a timeless classic in travel literature. A new Introduction by biographer Jane Fletcher Geniesse adds further context to her remarkable journey.