Brief History:

is a grand mosque located in the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. The name "al-Jameel" means "the beautiful" in Arabic and the mosque is renowned for its stunning architecture. Built in the seventh century by the Abbasid caliph Al-Mansur, it stands as the largest and oldest mosque in Mecca. It has served as the focus of the Hajj pilgrimage since its completion. The mosque is divided into two parts: the inner and outer courtyards, which are surrounded by a series of arches, minarets, and four large cupolas. Inside, the mosque features a central hall, a grand hall, and a prayer hall known as the Kaaba. The mosque is also home to several Islamic relics, including the sapphire of Prophet Muhammad and the Zamzam Well. It is one of the most famous mosque in Saudi-Arabia which you must visit.

Architecture:

The architecture of Masjid al-Jameel is largely based off the Mekkan style, focusing on uprights, flat arches, and mortarless brick masonry. The interior is also decorated with intricate geometric patterns, stone carvings, and Quranic inscriptions. The grandeur of this mosque is awe-inspiring due to its immaculate design that has stood the test of time. When entering the mosque, one gains an immediate sense of powerful spirituality from the craftsmanship of its dome and iwan (Hall of Prayer). The Mosque is also noted for its large open area known as 'sahn' as well as its two minarets that stand mirroring one another and towering over the gates.The exterior constructions of the mosque are comprised of mud walling and marble incrustations, which shows the presence of an elaborate display of calligraphic art and Quranic inscriptions. The overall design of this Mosque allows it to receive worshippers from the four cardinal directions. It also has seven doors which open to mehrabs(prayer niches), 17 sets of balconies, nearly three dozen marble columns, and a courtyard with still water and palm trees. This is why, it is considered one of the most beautiful mosque in the world.

Travel Information:

Address: The Masjid al-Jameel is located at the old city of Mecca in Saudi-Arabia. Directions: 1. From Jubail International Airport: Take the Al Khuraybah Road and head southwest. After approx. 12 km, take a slight right onto Al Alia Road. Continue on the Al Alia Road for approx. 7 km and make a slight left at the T-junction onto Ibrahim Al Khalil Road. Turn left onto Sharaa Al-Ghamdi and then left onto Sharaa Al Ghamdi 1. The Masjid al-Jameel is on the right side. 2. From Jeddah International Airport: Take the Makkah Al Mukarramah Highway/ 31 St/ 31 Street and head northwest. After approx. 20 km, take a slight right onto Al Haram Street. Continue on Al Haram Street for 3 km and then take a slight left onto Ibrahim Al Khalil Road. Turn left onto Sharaa Al-Ghamdi and then left onto Sharaa Al Ghamdi 1. The Masjid al-Jameel is on the right side. beautiful masjid.