Brief History:

Masjid al-Hajr is a mosque located in Mecca, Saudi-Arabia. It was the first Islamic site of worship in Mecca, built sometime between 638 and 644 CE, and is one of the five historical mosques that the Quran accords a special status of holiness. The mosque was erected on the spot where the Great Mosque of Mecca (Al-Masjid al-Ḥarâm) now stands, and is said to have been built by the caliph, Abu Bakr. The original mosque structure, however, was destroyed due to flooding, and was subsequently rebuilt on the same spot. Masjid al-Hajr is believed to have been a major contribution to Muhammad's quest of establishing religious sites in Mecca, signaling the start of Islam in Saudi-Arabia. Today, visitors from all over the world come to Masjid al-Hajr to visit the renowned site. It is one of the most famous mosque in Saudi-Arabia which you must visit.

Architecture:

The Islamic architecture of Masjid al-Hajr in Mecca is known to be determined by its historical events. It has seen many renovations over the centuries. Masjid al-Hajr is situated at the centre of the city of Makkah and is considered one of the holiest sites in the world for Muslims. The architecture of Masjid al-Hajr in Mecca is mainly characterized by its large 1, 95000 square meter open courtyard which has a capacity of about 800, 000. It is surrounded by seven minarets and is accessed by three separate gates from the south, east and west. The prayer hall area includes two minarets, a Mihrab and a Muwaqqit (clock tower). The internal structure of the masjid consists of three walls, namely the qibla (direction of prayer) which represent the five cardinal points, the qibla wall which is the direction of prayer, the mihrab (the focal point of prayer), minbar (sermon place) and maqsuras (seating area for important people). The entrance way directly faces the Ka'aba in the center. It is adorned with green and white marble inlets surrounded by two votive arcades. A section on the northern side consists of small domes for accommodating pilgrims. The entire center is located in the middle of the mosque and nicknamed as the “heart of the city”. The entire complex is surrounded by twelve gates, and the floor is made of white marble and paved with tiny marble squares. The courtyard of Masjid al-Hajr features a unique ponds with water fountains and is encompassed by three mosques, five minarets and two lamp towers which enhance its beauty. There is also an administrative center which serves as base station for the pilgrims. The interiors of the mosque are decorated with exquisite stained glass and gilded Islamic calligraphy. The overall architecture of Masjid al-Hajr is a marvel of enlightenment, spirituality and sanctity. It stands as an impressive example of architecture which truly reflects the Islamic values of love, unity and brotherhood. This is why, it is considered one of the most beautiful mosque in the world.

Visiting Hours:

The Masjid al-Hajr is open to visitors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The mosque is closed to non-Muslims during the Hajj period. best mosque in the world.

Travel Information:

Masjid al-Hajr is located in the city of Mecca in Saudi-Arabia, near the Great Mosque. By Air: The closest airport to Masjid al-Hajr is the King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) which is located in Jeddah, Saudi-Arabia. It is around 150 km from Mecca, the city of Masjid al-Hajr. Major airlines such as Saudi Arabian Airlines offer regular flights to Jeddah. From Jeddah, you can take a bus, taxi or rent a car to reach Masjid al-Hajr. By Bus: Buses from major cities of Saudi-Arabia are available to transport people to and from Masjid al-Hajr. The journey from major cities in Saudi-Arabia such as Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam is comfortable and convenient. By Train: There is no train service available to reach Masjid al-Hajr. But, the Saudi Railways provides a comfortable and reliable service to and from major cities such as Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah, from where you can take a bus, taxi or rent a car to reach Masjid al-Hajr. By Road: Masjid al-Hajr is located around 150 km from both Mecca and Jeddah. Therefore, a car, taxi or bus ride from either of these cities is feasible. However, renting a car is the most convenient option to reach the holy site of Masjid al-Hajr. beautiful masjid.