Madinah: The Second Holiest City in Islam
Madinah is revered as Islam’s second holiest city, following the sacred city of Makkah. As a cornerstone of Islamic history and architecture, it became a sanctuary for Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his devoted companions after their migration from Makkah. The city also holds deep spiritual significance as the final resting place of the Prophet (pbuh), drawing millions of visitors annually who come to pay their respects.
Madinah is home to three of Islam’s most historic mosques—Masjid an-Nabawi, Quba Mosque, and Masjid al-Qiblatayn. These sacred sites offer pilgrims an opportunity to learn about the life of the Prophet (pbuh) and his legacy. If you’re planning a pilgrimage, be sure to include the following must-visit Ziyarat sites in your itinerary.
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Jabal Uhud
Jabal Uhud, also known as Mount Uhud, is a key Ziyarat site for pilgrims visiting Saudi Arabia. This historic mountain was the battleground of the Battle of Uhud, fought between Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and the Quraysh polytheists. Though the Quraysh claimed victory, their success was incomplete since the Prophet (pbuh) survived.
Many of the Prophet’s (pbuh) companions who fought in the battle are buried in the soil of this mountain. Jabal Uhud, the largest mountain in Madinah, stands about 6.4 kilometers north of the city and remains a breathtaking sight.
Masjid Qiblatain
Masjid Qiblatain, or the Mosque of Two Qiblas, holds immense historical significance in Islam. It is the site where the divine revelation instructed the Prophet (pbuh) to change the direction of prayer (Qibla) from Jerusalem to the Kaaba in Makkah.
Originally, the mosque had two Mihrabs, one facing Jerusalem and the other toward Makkah. Following the revelation, the Mihrab facing Jerusalem was removed. This mosque remains an important pilgrimage site for Muslims worldwide.
Bir al-Ghars (Beer E Ghars)
Bir al-Ghars is a revered Ziyarat site believed to be one of the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) most cherished wells. He drank from its water and performed Wudu (ablution) there. Islamic tradition also holds that he requested to be bathed with this well’s water after his passing.
Recently renovated, the site now includes a small mosque, an enclosed wall, and a Sabil (fountain), making it more accessible for pilgrims who wish to visit this significant historical landmark.
Masjid Quba
Masjid Quba, or Quba Mosque, is one of the most sacred sites in Madinah. It is believed to be the first mosque ever built in Islam, established by the Prophet (pbuh) upon his arrival in Madinah.
Located just a 15-minute drive from Masjid an-Nabawi, Masjid Quba is not only a place of worship but also serves as a community center, school, and gathering place. Beyond its religious significance, the mosque is a stunning example of traditional Islamic architecture.
Salman Farsi Date Farm
The Salman Farsi Date Farm, also known as the Garden of Salman Farsi, is a historically significant Ziyarat site. This garden was planted by the Prophet (pbuh) and his companions as part of an effort to free Salman al-Farsi from slavery.
Salman al-Farsi, believed to be the first Persian to accept Islam, was freed when 300 date palms were planted as part of the agreement for his release. The farm also features a freshwater well used for irrigation. Visitors can admire the date palms, drink from the well, and purchase fresh dates during their visit.
The Seven Mosques
A major pilgrimage site, the Seven Mosques complex holds great significance in Islamic history. Located west of Sala’ Mountain, these mosques are linked to the Battle of the Trench, where Muslim forces dug defensive trenches to protect Madinah from Quraysh armies.
The seven mosques include:
- Masjid Salman al-Farsi
- Masjid al-Fath
- Masjid Ali bin Abi Talib
- Masjid Umar bin Khattab
- Masjid Sa’ad bin Mu’adh
- Masjid Abu Bakr al-Siddiq
- Masjid Fatimah Az-Zahra
Though Masjid Qiblatain is sometimes mentioned as part of this complex, it is about 1 kilometer away and is often visited separately.
Plan Your Ziyarat Pilgrimage
Exploring Madinah’s sacred sites is a spiritually enriching experience for every pilgrim. Whether you’re visiting for Hajj, Umrah, or personal reflection, these landmarks offer deep insight into Islamic history and the life of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).
If you’re planning a visit, be sure to include these Ziyarat sites in your itinerary to fully immerse yourself in the rich spiritual and historical legacy of Madinah.
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