Mohammed Bin Salman Project Revitalises Bani Haram Mosque In Madinah With Historic Restoration Efforts

The Bani Haram Mosque, located 1.68 kilometers from the Prophet's Mosque, is undergoing restoration under the Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historical Mosques. This initiative aims to restore the mosque to its original state from 14 centuries ago, addressing changes made over time while preserving its Islamic and social heritage.

The renovation project will expand the mosque's area from 226.42 square meters to 236.42 square meters, maintaining a capacity for 172 worshippers. The restoration will use natural materials like clay, stone, and wood sourced locally. This approach ensures that the mosque retains its traditional architectural style while adapting to modern construction standards.

The Mohammed bin Salman Project balances preserving ancient architectural features with modern construction standards for sustainability. The Bani Haram Mosque is one of 30 mosques included in this project's second phase, covering all 13 regions of Saudi Arabia. This phase includes six mosques in Riyadh and five in Makkah.

In addition to Riyadh and Makkah, four mosques in Madinah are part of this phase. Other regions include three mosques in Aseer and two each in the Eastern Province, Al-Jouf, and Jazan. One mosque each will be restored in Northern Borders, Tabuk, Al-Baha, Najran, Hail, and Al-Qassim.

The restoration employs traditional building techniques using cut stones of various shapes and sizes bonded with mud mortar. Palm tree components are used for roofing, serving as both load-bearing and insulating elements. This method adapts to climatic conditions while maintaining historical authenticity.

The project's goal is not only to restore but also to ensure these structures meet current needs without compromising their historical value. By using local materials and traditional methods, the project respects the original design while incorporating necessary updates for durability.

This comprehensive restoration effort highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage while embracing sustainable development practices. The Bani Haram Mosque stands as a testament to this balance between tradition and modernity.

With inputs from SPA