Makkah is one of the most important cities in the world for many reasons. Its cultural significance is undeniable, and its beauty and long history make it something we all should know more about! Its links to the Islamic faith make it one of the most-visited cities on the planet, too. With that in mind, here are some fun facts about Makkah worth remembering.
1. Makkah is its shortened name.
Although you may not have ever heard of Makkah alone, maybe its full name, Makkah al-Mukarramah, will mean more to you. If not, chances are you’ve heard of the city being referred to as Mecca.
2. It is the holiest city in Islam.
Makkah is considered the holiest city in Islam. In fact, it is the most sacred city for Muslims all over the world! It is also the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad.
3. It is known for its cube.
One of the most famous parts of the city is the Kaaba. Located in the Masjid al-Haram (the Grand Mosque), the Kaaba is a cubic structure around which Pilgrims perform Tawaf during the Hajj pilgrimage.
4. All pilgrims head to Makkah during the Hajj pilgrimage.
Makkah is known for being the centre of the Hajj, an annual pilgrimage, one of Islam’s Five Pillars. Millions of people worldwide travel to the city to perform rituals aligned with the Hajj.
5. The Kaaba is surrounded by a huge mosque.
The Grand Mosque, or Masjid al-Haram, is the building that surrounds the Kaaba. It is one of the largest mosques in the world. In fact, during peak times at the mosque, millions of worshippers are welcomed inside!
6. Makkah is the home of the Zamzam Well
Located inside the Masjid al-Haram is the Zamzam Well. It is considered to be a sacred source of water. Pilgrims often come to drink from it, and it is also distributed to Muslims worldwide.
7. The city is also home to Mount Arafat.
One of the most important locations to visit during the Hajj pilgrimage is Mount Arafat. It is where Prophet Muhammad delivered his Farewell Sermon. Pilgrims come to spend the day in prayer and reflection in the area.
8. You can see the Black Stone in the Kaaba, too.
Embedded in one corner of the Kaaba, the Black Stone, or the Hajar al-Aswad, is believed to have been given to Prophet Ibrahim by the archangel Gabriel. Pilgrims come to try to touch or kiss it during Tawaf.
9. The city is also home to an incredible skyline!
Makkah has many well-known buildings and areas to see. For example, the Abraj Al Bait Towers is a complex of skyscrapers featuring luxury hotels, shopping malls, and even the world’s largest clock face! It’s known locally as the Clock Tower, a name that’s spread famously overseas, too.
10. You can learn more about the history and the importance of the city in the Abraj Al Bait Towers.
If you would like to learn more about the city and experience as much as possible there, it is best to visit the Makkah Clock Royal Tower Museum. Situated within the Abraj Al Bait Towers, this museum showcases Islamic art, artefacts, and the history of Makkah. It’s especially interesting to theologists and followers of Islam.
FAQs about Makkah
Is it Mecca or Makkah?
Officially, the area is known as Makkah al-Mukarramah. However, both Mecca and Makkah are used to refer to the city, as indeed, both names are also used to describe the region.
Can non-Muslims go to Mecca?
Sadly, for non-Muslims, it is impossible to see Mecca or Makkah in person. Saudi Arabia’s government is strict about entry to Mecca and reserves the right for Muslims only. Documents can be checked upon entry, and unless you can prove you are a Muslim, you will not be allowed access.
Does anyone live in Mecca?
Yes, around two million people live in the city of Makkah. They also work there and experience normal day-to-day lives in the holiest city!
Further reading
https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/see-do/destinations/makkah
https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Tourism-g293993-Mecca_Makkah_Province-Vacations.html
Do you know any fun facts about Makkah? Share them in the comments below!