Saudi Arabia is bestowing one of the finest mosques on the realm of spirituality through the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project on the Development of the Ancient Mosques. Al-Fath Mosque in the Al-Jumum governorate near Makkah is undergoing restoration. The mosque is among 60 that are being repaired of a total of 130 historic mosques around the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia Restores Al-Fath Mosque, Makkah, As Part Of The Historic Mosque Project
A report by Arab News indicates that the restoration aims at protecting the religious significance of the mosque. building strength in its construction, and increasing capacity among worshippers.
A Mosque Connected To Early Islamic History
Al-Fath Mosque is valuable in terms of history and spirituality. It is also believed by the Islamic tradition that Prophet Muhammad prayed here. Therefore, this place has a special status among all other mosques of the Makkah area.
This mosque was neglected over the years. It slowly sunk in silence and was forgotten by people, and was situated in the Makkah-Madinah road about 260 metres away. According to the Saudi Press Agency, its most significant restoration was made in the year 1998 with the addition of a prayer area and simple facilities to serve women.
It is the new step that seeks to rectify this long hiatus.
Growth To Create Larger Space
The restoration does not simply repair, but enhances.
After its completion, Al-Fath Mosque will be increased to cover 553.50 square metres as opposed to its 455.77 square metres. The building will also increase its capacity to 333 worshippers, as against 218 current capacity so that more individuals will be able to pray comfortably.
Masonry materials like brick, basalt stone, gypsum and wood are natural resources used by the workers. These decisions allow preserving the traditional Hijazi style of architecture, instead of changing it to a generic one.
Unique features, that are carved wooden screens on balconies, will be preserved. The concern is preservation rather than replacement.
Also Read: Ahead Of Ramadan, Saudi Arabia Sets Rules For Mosques Nationwide During The Holy Month
The Nationwide Program In 13 Regions
Al-Fath Mosque belongs to the second round of the project that covers the whole 13 regions of Saudi Arabia. In Riyadh and Madinah, to Aseer, Jouf and Jazan, historic mosques are being meticulously restored with the help of region-specific methods.
This strategy makes every mosque local instead of basing it on the same template.
Cover Image Courtesy: SPA/Website