Masjid al-Haram | Journey into the Spiritual Heart of the Muslim World

🌟Highlights: Masjid al-Haram, the largest mosque in Islam, is located in the center of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Covering an area of 812,000 square meters, it can accommodate over 2 million Muslims praying simultaneously. The mosque has 25 main gates and 6 smaller gates, surrounded by 7 minarets, each 92 meters high, symbolizing the days of the week. The mosque's walls measure 166m to the northwest, nearly 170m to the southeast, almost 110m to the northeast, and approximately 111m to the southwest. ❤Recommendation: Originally built in the 7th century AD by the prophets Ibrahim and Ishmael, the mosque has undergone numerous expansions throughout history. Notable expansions were carried out by Muhammad's successors, such as Umar ibn al-Khattab and the third caliph Uthman. The Saudi government also conducted large-scale expansions in 1955, 1989, and 2011. ✅The Kaaba: Located in the center of the mosque's courtyard, the Kaaba, also known as the Sacred House, is a cube-shaped building, 14 meters high. Inside, three pillars support the roof, and on the northeast side, a golden door made of 286 kg of pure gold stands. The Kaaba is perpetually draped in a black silk curtain embroidered with verses from the Quran, which is changed annually. Embedded in the southeastern wall, 1.5 meters above the ground, is the Black Stone, a sacred relic revered by Muslims. ✅Well of Zamzam: Situated southeast of the Kaaba, the Well of Zamzam is considered sacred. Pilgrims drink from it after circumambulating the Kaaba, seeking blessings. ✅Minarets: Seven towering minarets, in typical Islamic style, grace the mosque. Six are positioned on either side of the three main gates, while the seventh stands adjacent to the 35-meter diameter dome. From these minarets, the muezzin calls the faithful to prayer. ✅Marble Colonnades: Two-tiered marble colonnades encircle the open courtyard. From the walls to the staircases and the entire floor, pristine white marble paves the way, providing space for worshippers to walk and rest, adding to the mosque's grandeur and splendor. 📍Address: Al Haram Rd, Mecca 24231, Saudi Arabia. It is nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains in the heart of Mecca. 🚉Transportation: Within Mecca, free public buses provide convenient access to the mosque, frequently shuttling between various areas and the mosque. Taxis are also available, with fares varying based on distance, typically ranging from SAR 10–50. Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the mosque; inquire at the front desk upon check-in. 🕙Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day, year-round, allowing worshippers to pray at any time. 📝Tips: When visiting Masjid al-Haram, please respect local religious customs and dress modestly. Men should wear long trousers and long-sleeved shirts. Women are required to wear an abaya and headscarf, covering their hair, arms, and legs. Shoes must be removed before entering the mosque. Maintain silence and refrain from loud conversations.