Explore The Architecture Of The Two Holy Mosques Exhibition At Darah Pavilion During Hajj Conference

The King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah) is presenting an exhibition titled "Architecture of the Two Holy Mosques and the Holy Sites" during the Hajj Conference and Exhibition 2025. This pavilion provides a visual exploration of the significant expansions of the Two Holy Mosques and the development of holy sites over time, from early construction efforts to major projects that define these sacred places today.

Visitors are taken back to the initial expansion phase of the Grand Mosque, where rare photographs depict the construction of the second floor of Al-Safa and Al-Marwah corridor (Al-Masaa). These images highlight the advanced architectural and engineering techniques used at that time. Documentary footage also captures key moments from both the first and second expansions, showcasing scenes with heavy equipment, excavation, and concrete works at construction sites.

The exhibition extends to Madinah, featuring historical photographs of the Prophet’s Mosque. Notable images include those of the western façade and large sunshades installed under King Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud's directive. This installation marked a significant milestone in enhancing comfort within mosque courtyards. A dedicated section showcases the Kiswa's evolution, highlighting its craftsmanship over decades.

Samples and photographs document stages from spinning and weaving to embroidery and modern design technologies. Images show artisans at work in the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaaba Kiswa, blending manual artistry with advanced technology using gold and silver threads in service of Islam's holiest site.

Beyond mosques, the exhibition highlights developments at holy sites. Archival images reveal pilgrims’ tents in Mina from earlier years transforming into organized accommodations for lodging, prayer, and meal preparation. Historic images also showcase Jamarat Bridge after constructing surrounding barriers to manage pilgrim movement during stoning rituals — a key milestone in crowd management at holy sites.

The pavilion blends engineering with history, documentation with imagery, presenting a coherent chronological narrative. It shows how modest structures evolved into one of the world's most sophisticated infrastructure systems. Visitors leave with a vivid understanding of architectural transformations shaping Hajj experiences through decades of continuous development.

With inputs from SPA