Skilled Craftsmen Reveal Secrets Behind Kaabah Kiswah At Madinah Exhibition

The exhibition at the King Salman International Convention Center in Madinah, running concurrently with the Umrah and Ziyarah Forum, has seen a significant draw with the pavilion of the General Authority for the Care of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque. Among the showcased activities, the weaving and stitching of the Kaabah Kiswah have captivated numerous visitors. This intricate process involves skilled craftsmen who dedicate hours to embroidering Quranic verses onto silk fabric using silver and golden threads in Thuluth calligraphy, a testament to their exceptional craftsmanship.

Ammar Al-Sindi, a weaver at the pavilion, shared insights into the meticulous production process of the Kiswah. According to Al-Sindi, creating the Kiswah involves 10 distinct stages that maintain high standards of precision and quality. The fabric is enriched with 52 golden pieces and crafted from 670 kilograms of natural silk, further embellished with approximately 120 kilograms of gold and 100 kilograms of silver. This elaborate creation is not only a work of art but also a symbol of devotion and respect.

The Kiswah, which adorns the Kaabah, is replaced annually on the first day of Muharram with a new one. The production cycle spans 10 months, highlighting the dedication and effort invested in each piece. Al-Sindi revealed that the cost of producing a single Kiswah ranges between SAR20 million and SAR25 million. This significant investment underscores the importance of the Kiswah in Islamic tradition. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that this sacred cloth is presented as a gift by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, marking a gesture of profound significance.

The exhibition not only showcases the artistic and spiritual value of the Kiswah but also allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship involved in its creation. Through such displays, attendees can appreciate the cultural heritage and meticulous processes that define this revered practice.

With inputs from SPA