Makkah and Madinah are the holiest cities in the desert valley of western side of Saudi Arabia, and it is significant as its birthplace of holy Prophet Muhammad and the faith itself. Every year a millions of Muslims gather here to perform Hajj and Umrah and only Muslims are allowed to set foot in the holy cities. Generally the Makkah is considered as the crib and foundation of Islam. Madinah is remembered as the city of peace as it provides the flourishing to the religion Islam and it is where the Prophet PBUH is taking his eternal rest.
Masjid al Haram is believed, home to Kaaba was built by Prophet Ibraheem and Ismael whereas Madinah is shining bright with the Green dome of the Prophet’s mosque at its center. Makkah also is the direction of Qibla for all Muslims worldwide.
Below is a list of some must-visit sites in Makkah and Madinah to explore. So lets get started!
Masjid Al-Nabawi
After Masjid Al-Haram, Masjid Al-Nabawi or the Prophet's mosque is the second most revered and holy site. The Holy Prophet PBUH erected the Masjid upon his arrival in Madinah from Makkah, it is now Hazrat Muhammad PBUH's final resting place. The Masjid is a great symbol of unity, peace, devotion and spiritual blessings.
It is a great blessing for pilgrims to visit the holy site and offer prayers around the Prophet’s tomb to collect blessings. Its elegant interior reflects the simplicity, dedication and elegance. Each corner of the Masjid is adorned with Islamic art, mesmerising calligraphy and architectural excellence. The Masjid stands as a masterpiece of Islamic heritage and Qiblatain ensure smooth entry in the sacred mosque, living the dream of every Muslim around the world.
Masjid Al Haram
Masjid Al Haram is also known as the Great Mosque considered the most sacred and significant masjid in Islam. It situated in the territory of Kaaba, in Makha province of Saudi Arabia. It is trademark of unity, devotion and the center of Islamic faith as well as the place of worship. It is called Haram means Romanized, shelter by the Muslims as to refer to the first masjid of Islam and Prophet Muhammad’s masjid.
The interior of Masjid is a masterpiece characterized by simple, elegant and awe inspiring designs. The spaces and corridors are covered with marble and natural stones and adorned with beautiful patterns and traditional Islamic art and styles. It is also regarded as the largest masjid in world having the capacity for more than two million pilgrimages. Its structure covers an area of more than 400,000 square meters. The amazing fact for 2024 is that it is considered world’s largest and expensive building.
The annual hajj tour is the most rapid and profound practice of this unity as millions of pilgrims come together to fulfill their religious duties and pursue a deeper connection with their faith.
Safaa and Marwa
Safaa and Marwa are two small hills connected with a large mountain, located in Makah and part of masjid Al Haram. These small hills are of significant importance as these are the integral part of Hajj and Umrah. The history links back to bibI Hajra and her son Ismael (A.s), as she ran seven times between the hills for the quest of water to save her son’s life and, also this is the place from where the fountain of Zam Zam is flowing and is called the worlds purist water to cure all the spiritual illness and clean all the bad energy. It is a symbol of pure trust, devotion, patience and mercy of Allah SWT on both the mother and son. It is deeply a spiritual monument to reconnect us with the historical roots of our faith and shape the true form of divine powers.
Al-Masjid al-Qiblatain
Al-Qiblatain Masjid is the Madinah mosque with two Qiblas located there. Masjid is traditionally said to be the location Prophet Muhammad got the orders of switching the Qibla from Allah SWT during their prayed period. The masjid was originally called Bani Salima Majid, but the name was changed to Masjid al-Qiblatain after Prophet Muhammad received the command of changing the Qibla. Qiblatain include a visit to the most significant Masjid of Islam during Umrah trips to restore their souls and reflect on the early days of Islam.
The Well of Zamzam
The history of Zamzam links back to the history of Safaa and Marwa, located in the ground of masjid al Haram in Makah Saudi Arabia. And renowned as the most sacred and purest well in the world. It holds the immense importance in the history of Islam.
- In Islamic tradition and history of Islam, it is believed that Zamzam was miracle given by Allah to Hajra and Ismael, the son and wife of hazrat Ibrahim.
- The name Zamzam originated from the gushing sound of water flowing through the heels of little Ismael.
- It has divine healing powers and spiritually soothing properties.
Clock Tower Museum
Clock tower museum established by the crown prince Muhammad bin Salman, located in Abraj Al-Bait complex consisting on four flours, each represents a unique and different theme. It provides the information about universe, Islam and its history. It looks astonishing in its deck view, giving 360 degree view of ancient city and majestic masjid of al Haram with its mesmerizing beauty.
To enjoy the beauty of its height and explore it wonderful architecture let’s hope abroad Qiblatain USA, all at affordable prices.
City of Mina
City of Mina also known as city of tents with its rich history in spirituality offers a unique, peaceful and reflective atmosphere to pilgrims. It is located near southeast valley of Makkah around 8 kilometers. During pilgrimage every pilgrim has to pass by there while reciting their prayers. The three jamarat also located in Mina where the ritual of throwing stones is performed. The ritual links back to the history where Hazrat Ibrahim throw stones at devil , who trying to stop him from performing his duty of sacrificing his son Ismael as assigned by Allah almighty.
Masjid Quba
Masjid Quba is the first-ever masjid built by Prophet Muhammad PBUH in the history of Islam. Masjid is located outside Madinah. Masjid Quba is of great significance for Muslims, and a visit to the Masjid has a great spiritual effect on souls. Pilgrims pay a visit to the Masjid and offer prayers to reflect the beauty of Islam’s early days. The masjid marks the beautiful start of Islam, built in 622 CE by the blessed hands of Prophet PBUH himself and his beloved companions.
Final Words
To the smallest extent, visiting the sacred cities of Makkah and Madinah for spiritual purposes or Islamic history interrogation, accomplishing Hajj& Umrah or paying tribute to the King of Kingdom reflects a profound divine experience. The cave of Hira is considered and believed as the first place where the first verses of Quran was revealed to Prophet Mohammad while Masjid Qiblatain is where the Prophet of Allah received the order of Qibla changing, marking a striking historical event of Islam. Each place has its own divine aroma and spiritual properties.