Saudi Arabia, home to the holiest cities of Islam, Mecca and Madina, is visited by believers globally. The interesting facts about Mecca and Madina make one feel fascinated and place an urge to visit the cities at least once in their lifetime. These cities have a glorious past and evoke a sense of spirituality & peace among pilgrims and believers. The classic and timeless architecture of Mecca and Madina astonishes everyone across the world. If you wish to know what makes Mecca and Madina the most-visited cities in the world, it is time to take a closer look at their intriguing facts.
Must Know Facts About Mecca And Madina
Home to the largest mosque & highest prayer room in the world, the holiest city of the Islamic region, and burial places of the Prophet Mohammad, the following interesting facts about Mecca and Madina have surprised travellers worldwide. Read now!
5 Facts About Mecca
1. The Holiest City Of Islamic Region
The history of Mecca and Madina is linked with the life and mission of the founder of Islam, the Prophet Muhammad. He emphasised the oneness of God, and Allah and challenged idolatry in Mecca. The city is not only the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad but also the first city wherein he cultivated the ideas of belief and unity. Though he and his followers faced persecution and migrated to Medina, Mecca holds a special place in the hearts of believers. The city showcases a seamless blend of tradition and modernity, admired by many believers. Mecca is considered the holiest city of Islam, one of the key facts everyone should know about.
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2. World’s Largest Mosque
Al-Maszid al-Haram is the world’s largest mosque in Mecca, one of the interesting facts about Mecca and Madina. A large number of believers visit the mosque, especially for Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. It has the sacred Kaaba, the holy shrine, at its heart. The appealing structures of the Great Mosque include the awe-inspiring Abraj Al Bait Clock Tower, a captivating marvel that compliments the skyline. The mosque is highly known for its Islamic architecture and the aura of positivity, spirituality & radiance. Visitors and believers travel to this heavenly place from different parts of the world for blessings and prayers.
3. World’s Highest Prayer Room
Mecca is home to the world’s highest prayer room within the Abraj Al Bait Clock Tower. The prayer rooms offer a breathtaking view of the Al-Masjid al-Haram and Kaaba. It is located at an altitude of six hundred meters above ground level and five hundred meters away from the Kaaba. While visiting the site, believers feel immersed in a spiritual ambience. The prayer room appears to be like a jewel in the heart of Mecca. The world’s highest prayer room symbolizes the dream of reaching new spiritual heights while engaging in the practice of Salah. Mecca and Madina’s location in Saudi Arabia serves as the focal point of Islamic worship and devotion by many.
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4. Home To The Sacred Kaaba
The Kaaba is a cubic structure and it is believed that it was built by the Prophet Ibrahim and his son Isma’il. It stands within the Al-Masjid al-Haram or the Grand Mosque. During prayers, Muslims worldwide face the Kaaba, reinforcing a sense of devotion and harmony. Every year, millions of believers go on a pilgrimage of Hajj and walk around the Kaaba as an act of worship. The spiritual appeal of the Kaaba is timeless, making Mecca one of the favourite spots in the hearts of believers. They engage in rituals and feel a strong connection with God. Many travellers leave astounded by the amazing facts about Mecca Madina, including the history and the essence of spirituality embedded in the cities.
5. The Black Stone In Kaaba Was Originally White
The Black Stone is a sacred cornerstone, holding great value among all pilgrims and believers. It is embedded in the eastern corner of the Kaaba in Mecca. According to Islamic tradition, the stone was originally white, symbolizing purity, when it descended from heaven. However, it is believed that the colour has changed due to the sins of humanity. While performing the Tawaf during Hajj, the pilgrims seek to touch or kiss the Black Stone, honouring an Islamic tradition dating back to the Prophet Muhammad. Despite the black colour, the Black Stone has spiritual significance among believers, reflecting their faith. Today, many people think ‘When was Mecca Madina built?’ and are surprised to know the rich history of the two holiest cities of Saudi Arabia.
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5 Facts About Madina
1. City Of The Prophet’s Migration
As believers and visitors, everyone should know the historical journey of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Madina as it marked a transformative chapter in Islamic history. One of the wonderful facts about Mecca and Madina is that Medina holds a unique distinction as the City of the Prophet’s Migration, an event known as the Hijra. The Prophet Muhammad sought refuge in the city from persecution. It became a sanctuary as it provided the Prophet and his companions a place to propagate Islam freely. In the city, there was the establishment of a model Islamic society, thereby being a symbol of harmony and unity. Medina is a sacred destination for pilgrims & believers and a living testament to the faith.
2. Home To The Oldest Mosque Of Islam- Quba Mosque
Medina is home to the Quba Mosque which is regarded as the oldest mosque in Islam. It holds a profound significance as it was established by the Prophet Muhammad after he migrated to Medina. One of the interesting Mecca and Madina facts is that the Quba Mosque stands as a testament to the Islamic foundations. The mosque holds timeless spiritual and architectural appeal, captivating a large number of believers. As the Quba Mosque is the first mosque in Islam, it remains a beam of faith and attracts believers seeking spirituality. Pilgrims and visitors are highly drawn to the mosque for peace and warmth.
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3. Burial Place Of The Prophet Muhammad
Medina, also known as the ‘Enlightened City’ and ‘The City of the Messenger of God’ is one of the holiest places in Islam. The reason is that at Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, the revered Prophet Muhammad found his eternal resting place. The sepulchre lies beneath the Green Dome, an emblem of piousness. Pilgrims from across the world make their journeys to Medina to pay homage to the resting place of the Prophet. The burial place fosters a strong connection with the faith of believers. While visiting this holy place, one may experience the serenity echoed from the mosque’s walls, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. People who are wondering ‘how old is Mecca Madina?’ may learn the history of the city, nestled in the embrace of Saudi Arabia.
4. Home To The Prophet’s Mosque
Medina is in the heart of Saudi Arabia as it holds a place of profound religious and spiritual significance. Al-Masjid an-Nawabi, or the Prophet’s Mosque is located in Medina and is one of the interesting facts about Mecca and Madina. After migrating to the city, Prophet Muhammad established it and is a sanctuary for millions of Muslims worldwide. The mosque symbolized Islamic devotion and unity. It encompasses the tomb of Prophet Muhammad under the Green Dome. It has become one of the most-visited pilgrimage sites among all believers to do prayers and seek blessings. One may have the pleasure of watching classic architecture and experience the serenity of this heavenly place. The Prophet’s Mosque fosters a sense of peace among believers.
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5. Famous For Date Palms
Saudi Arabia is famous for its production of an array of fruits, especially dates. More than three hundred varieties of dates are grown there. You must be glad to know about one of the astonishing facts about Mecca and Madina the latter is worldwide recognised for its date palms. The landscape of the city is adorned with lush date farms, renowned for their exotic flavours and uniqueness. As a traveller, you have a great opportunity to savour these delectable dates and experience firsthand the rich agricultural heritage of the city. The city has earned a reputation as a world-famous producer of this nutritious fruit. The connection between the city’s residents and the land creates a lasting impression on travellers from across the globe.
Further Read: Places To Visit In Middle East
Wasn’t it interesting to know the facts about Mecca and Madina? The cities hold a religious and spiritual value that captivates tourists from across the globe. Plan your trip to Middle East and enjoy the best vacation experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Facts Of Mecca and Madina
Was Mecca or Madina first?
Mecca predates Madina in terms of historical significance. Mecca is considered the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad and is also the location of the Kaaba. However, the Prophet migrated to Medina, known as the Hijra, and is his final resting place.
What is the full name of Madina?
Madinah is an Arabic word meaning ‘city’. The full name is Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, meaning an ‘Enlightened City’. Prophet Muhammad held the city with deep affection and the connection with the birth of Islam puts it on the itinerary for many pilgrims performing Hajj.
What is special about Mecca?
One of the key facts about Mecca Madina is that the former is the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad, while the latter is his resting place. The Kaaba is located at the centre of the Great Mosque and is universally considered by Muslims to be the most sacred place on Earth.
How old is Kaaba?
The Kaaba, the most sacred site in Islam, is believed to have been built by the Prophet Ibrahim and his son Prophet Isma’il (Ishmael), as mentioned in Islamic tradition. The exact age of the Kaaba is not precisely known but has a rich history dating back thousands of years.
What is Medina best known for?
Medina is best known for its religious and historical importance in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad migrated to Medina in 622 CE, an event known as the Hijra. Some key highlights of Medina include the Quba Mosque, Prophet’s Mosque, and the city’s serene atmosphere. The city existed for over 1500 years before the Prophet Muhammad migrated from Mecca.
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