Mecca's Architectural Marvels: 5 Must-See Wonders Beyond the Kaaba

Islam’s holiest city is Mecca, and it has some of the most important landmarks in the history of Islamic architecture. Of course, the Kaaba being the main attraction will always be a magnet for millions of pilgrims every year, but KSA has numerous other architectural sites that are just as beautiful as well. 

1. Masjid al-Haram

The Kaaba is one of the most majestic structures ever to have been built, and the mosque that houses it is the closest in magnificence. Masjid al-Haram is not only the largest mosque on the planet but also is among those that leave a truly mesmerizing impression. It has gone through various alterations and enlargements in the last few decades to meet the growing needs. Today, it is just overwhelming in its proportions – the mosque can host as many as 2 million people at a time.

Some massive domes and pillars offer shade in the middle of the courtyard and high towering minarets overlook a congregation of devotees. Quite exquisite too are the architectural works especially on the columns as well as the arcades of the mosque. One has to commend the architects for creating a stunning design of the mosque that incorporates both traditional and contemporary Islamic themes.

2. Jabal al-Nour

Jabal al-Nour, commonly known as the Mountain of Light, is a small hill right outside of the perimeter of Masjid al-Haram’s walls. It has great religious importance as this place is considered to be the first venue where the prophet Muhammad was given the first words of the Holy Quran. Hira Cave, the place where the holy Prophet received his first revelation is situated halfway up the slope and can be identified by the green dome over it.

Although the place is rather small, the mountain called Jabal al-Nour vantage point contains breathtaking views of the Kaaba and the city. This site can be reached by a staircase that lies at the back part of the Masa’a gallery in the mosque. Whereas many confine their view of the Kaaba to this place, others ascend even higher up the hill to get a view of the structure. The fact that Jabal al-Nour has a spiritual connection and is in a strategic position of view is enough reason why it is a must-visit.

3. Abraj Al Bait Towers

Standing opposite Masjid al-Haram is nothing but the gigantic Abraj Al Bait Towers. They include; residential buildings, hotels, shopping malls, and even prayer stations. The main clock tower stands 601 meters high and has a gleaming gold top; it ranks among the tallest structures in Saudi Arabia.

The Abraj Al Bait Towers are taller than the mosque but the closeness to the Kaaba provides new perspectives, exclusive for visitors. People can directly see into the compound of the Masjid al-Haram from the rooms of the hotels or the terraces of the buildings. It is such a different view that has placed these modern towers on many’s most-wanted lists.

4. Qishla of Mecca

Adjacent to the Grand Mosque, there is an archeological landmark of Kishla – the historic administrative center of Mecca. It became the official residence of the Sharif of Mecca and the center of Ottoman rule in the Hejaz for centuries. Exploring the gates and arcades as restored nowadays helps to reveal much about the governance history in this city.

The Najdi style of the Qishla is as astonishing as its history as well as the appearance of the structure. It is decorated with tall coral stone arches, Islamic geometric, and architectural designs, and painted calligraphy. Fortunately, unlike other parts, most of the Qishla is fenced off for visitors, but the outside is still eye-catching in terms of carving. It also today holds other cultural activities that are a result of the historical significance of the site.

5. Ajyad Fortress

The Ajyad Fortress is another striking structure that can be found on a small hill at the back of the Abraj Al Bait Towers. This stone bastion had years of guarding Mecca; the structure was erected at the end of the 18th century. While it might not boast elaborate filigree, the brooding ramparts and watchtowers are more than a match for any derogatory term.

However, the fortress was removed in 2002 to accommodate the expansion of the Grand Mosque. An addition with polished stone walls has been built behind the towers to house a modern recreation. Standing on top of the fortress provides a bird’s eye view where one can take pictures of the Abraj Al Bait Towers in the background of the Masjid al-Haram.

Beyond the Spiritual Heart

The power of attraction is uniquely centered on the Kaaba, but anyone who has seen beyond the Kabaah and the Grand Mosque would attest to the architectural wonders that are contained in Mecca. It runs from the sky-scraping modern architecture to the historic old towers and bastions and it is a city that brings out a passionately spiritual past with an aggressively new-age future. From the technical point of view, the architectural treasures of Mecca are numerous, and they have far more to do with the history of civilization, as well as with the history of architectural, political, economic, and technological developments.

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