This is a collaborative post: As the birthplace of Islam, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is, unsurprisingly, drawing tourists from all around the world. Not only is it a place of immense religious significance, but the sights and surroundings of the Arabian Peninsula are also a great advantage. That being said, we are here to introduce you to the most beautiful mosques in this magical country. Let’s take a look at the five of them!
Great Mosque of Mecca
Without competition, the number one goes to the city of Mecca and its signature place of worship – Masjid al-Haram, or simply, the Great Mosque of Mecca.
The interior is very to-the-point. In the middle of it, there is a cube-shaped structure called the Kaaba – the most sacred altar in Islam. Every day, Muslims from all around the world face the altar while they are praying.
Every year, millions of Muslims visit the site, as it is of the utmost importance and is a part of the hajj, a pilgrimage every Islam follower must make at least once in his lifetime. The beauty of it is truly otherworldly! The central courtyard is surrounded by prayer areas, and when the crowd surrounds the Kaaba during invocation, it makes for the most impressive sights. Keep in mind, however, that only Muslims are allowed in Mecca in order to keep peace and preserve the sanctity of the whole city.
Prophet’s Mosque
Carry on with your journey by taking the Mecca to Medina train and exploring the holy Islamic sites further.
The Prophet’s Mosque, or al-Masjid an-Nabawi, is the mosque built by the Islamic oracle Muhammad and another highly significant sanctuary to the Muslims. After Mecca’s Masjid al-Haram, the Prophet’s Mosque is the second largest and second holiest site in Islam. Initially an open-air building, the mosque served as a community center, a court of law, and a religious school. It is really amazing how much history the site carries!
The Floating Mosque
The Floating Mosque is probably the most perplexing and signature mark of Jeddah. It was built at the end of the 20th century on water, creating the most magical look with the snow-white temple and turquoise blue water.
The marble masterpiece is set on the Red Sea, and while the sights are stunning any time of the day, if you can make it at sunset or sunrise, The Floating Mosque will look like a postcard!
However, the beautiful exterior is not all that the mosque is famous for. Unlike many other traditional Islam temples, this one is installed with advanced light and sound technologies, making it quite modern and innovative, yet maintaining the holy traditions.
Al Rajhi Grand Mosque
Settled in the capital and the largest city of Saudi Arabia, Al Rajhi Grand Mosque, is the most prominent Islamic temple in the city, offering numerous services to the community. It is also a stunning historical landmark and one of the most beautiful places you could visit in Saudi Arabia.
Unlike the other ones we have already mentioned, Al Rajhi Grand Mosque is more than just a remarkable place of worship. Instead, you can also attend educational programs, learn more about the culture and traditions of Muslim mosques and Islam, also converse and inquire about all you wish to know at several debates.
The mosque offers refreshments and a cozy atmosphere, so you will definitely enjoy your time here. However, keep in mind that this is still a sacred place and not a museum! So remember to be respectful.
KAFD Grand Mosque
Last but not least, let’s explore the surprising and unexpected KAFD Grand Mosque. It is known for being an architectural centerpiece of the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh. The most uncommon and captivating thing about it is the unique style and design, highly modern exterior, and multifunctional site!
The inspiration for the outdoor design comes from Desert Rose, a naturally-occurring crystalline structure commonly found in Sudi Arabia, though specific geometries are based on traditional Islamic patterns, making KAFD Grand Mosque the perfect combination of contemporary culture and sacred traditions.
The building is set in a highly urbanized area and is surrounded by skyscrapers, so while the mosque might be the main desire of your trip, you also get free sights into the genius architectural cityscape of Saudi Arabia! KAFD Grand Mosque functions as a public place and an outdoor prayer site.
Enjoy the traditional sites and the most notable establishments in Saudi Arabia! The style and execution of what Islam means to Muslims nowadays are portrayed beautifully by these mosques, so make sure you visit with the utmost respect and open-mindedness. Have fun exploring!
Looking for more posts about sightseeing and travel? Check out this post about the Northern Lights!