Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Initiates Restoration Of Khaif Al-Hizami Mosque In Madinah

The Khaif Al-Hizami Mosque, located in Wadi Al-Safra, Badr Governorate, Madinah Region, is a historical landmark dating back to the mid-11th century AH. This mosque was once a crucial stop for Hajj and trade caravans. It is now part of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project's second phase aimed at developing historic mosques.

The restoration project will expand the mosque's area from 527.94 square meters to 603.35 square meters, increasing its capacity from 150 to 180 worshippers. The renovation will follow the traditional Madinah architectural style using natural materials like clay, stones, and wood sourced locally. The mosque's design is adapted to local climate conditions.

The mosque's architecture features cut stones of various shapes and sizes bonded with mud mortar. Palm components are used in the roof for load-bearing and insulation purposes. The restoration will maintain these materials while enhancing facades with basalt stone known for its sustainability and resistance to natural elements.

Saudi companies specializing in heritage restoration are undertaking this development. The project aims to balance traditional and modern construction standards, ensuring sustainability while preserving the mosque's historical characteristics. This initiative is part of a broader effort involving 30 mosques across Saudi Arabia's 13 regions.

The project's four strategic goals include restoring historic mosques for worship, preserving their architectural authenticity, highlighting cultural heritage, and enhancing religious significance. It aligns with Vision 2030 by integrating architectural heritage into modern mosque designs.

This second phase follows the successful completion of the first phase, which restored 30 historic mosques across 10 regions. In this phase, six mosques in Riyadh, five in Makkah, four in Madinah, three in Aseer, two each in the Eastern Region, Al-Jouf, and Jazan, and one each in Northern Borders, Tabuk, Al-Baha, Najran, Hail, and Qassim are included.

The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project ensures that both traditional aesthetics and modern functionality are considered during restorations. By doing so, it preserves not only the physical structures but also the cultural narratives they embody.

With inputs from SPA