Al-Masjid an-Nabawi
Al Madīnah al Munawwarah
Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, also known as The Prophet's Mosque, is located in Medina, Saudi Arabia, and is the second holiest site in Islam after the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca. Founded by Prophet Muhammad in 622 CE shortly after his migration (Hijrah) to Medina, it was built adjacent to his residence and served as a religious, social, and political center for the early Muslim community. The mosque has undergone numerous expansions throughout history, notably during the reigns of the Rashidun Caliphs, Umayyads, Abbasids, Ottomans, and the modern Saudi state, with the largest expansion completed in 1994. Architecturally, it features the famous Green Dome, which covers the tomb of Prophet Muhammad along with the first two caliphs, Abu Bakr and Umar. The mosque's interior includes the revered Rawdah, considered a garden of paradise, and it is a focal point for pilgrims performing Ziyarat, a visitation distinct from the obligatory Hajj pilgrimage. The mosque is also historically significant as the site where the Qibla direction was changed from Jerusalem to Mecca. Today, Al-Masjid an-Nabawi is surrounded by hotels and markets, serving millions of visitors annually with its spiritual, cultural, and architectural prominence.
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Tip: The best time to visit Al-Masjid an-Nabawi is during the cooler months from November to February to avoid the intense heat. Visitors are encouraged to plan their visit outside peak prayer times to avoid large crowds. It is advisable to purchase entry permits or guided tours in advance during Hajj and Ramadan seasons due to high demand. Modest Islamic attire is required, and non-Muslims are not permitted inside the mosque. Discounts or concessions may be available for groups or during off-peak periods. Respectful behavior and adherence to mosque rules enhance the experience.
Interesting facts
- •Al-Masjid an-Nabawi was the first place in the Arabian Peninsula to be illuminated by electric lights in 1909.
- •The mosque contains the Green Dome, a landmark built over the tomb of Prophet Muhammad and the first two caliphs, Abu Bakr and Umar.
- •Prayer in the mosque is considered to be worth a thousand times more than prayers elsewhere, except for the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca.
- •The mosque's Rawdah area, located between the Prophet's tomb and his pulpit, is regarded as one of the gardens of Paradise according to Islamic tradition.
- •The mosque has undergone nine major expansions throughout its history, reflecting its growing importance and the increasing number of pilgrims.
History
Al-Masjid an-Nabawi was originally built by Prophet Muhammad in 622 CE after his migration to Medina, serving as the community's religious and social hub.
The mosque was modest in size, constructed with palm trunks and mud bricks, and included the Prophet's house.
Over centuries, it underwent multiple expansions under successive Islamic rulers, including the Rashidun Caliphate, Umayyads, Abbasids, and Ottomans.
The Green Dome was added in the 13th century, marking the Prophet's tomb.
In the modern era, the Saudi government has overseen extensive renovations and expansions, notably in 1994, to accommodate millions of pilgrims annually.
The mosque was also the first building in the Arabian Peninsula to be electrified in 1909.
Place Guide
The Green Dome13th century
The iconic green dome situated above the tomb of Prophet Muhammad and the first two caliphs, Abu Bakr and Umar. It is a symbol of the mosque and one of its most recognizable features.
The Rawdah
An area inside the mosque between the Prophet's tomb and his pulpit, considered by Muslims to be a garden of Paradise. It is a highly revered space for prayer and reflection.
The Prophet's Tomb Chamber (Al-Hijr or Hujra)622 CE (original burial)
The chamber where Prophet Muhammad, Abu Bakr, and Umar are buried. It is enclosed within the mosque and is a place of deep reverence.
Contact
Phone: 014 823 2400
