is the world’s second-largest religion, with nearly two billion followers. The religion originated in Arabia and spread throughout the world. While Mecca is its holiest site, there are other major Muslim sites that not only are architectural gems but provide intriguing insights into Islam’s history and culture. Here’s a look at some of Islam’s most important sites, each one a stunning icon of the faith.
Mecca, Saudi Arabia:
Mecca is considered the holiest city in Islam, as it is home to Islam’s holiest site Kaaba (‘Cube’) in Al-Masjid Al-Haram (The Sacred Mosque). Muslims across the globe bow in prayer toward the Kaaba five times daily, a ritual set by Muhammad in 624. Muslims with the means and ability are expected to visit Mecca once in a lifetime for the hajj, known as the fifth pillar of Islam. They begin and end the hajj by walking around the Kaaba seven times.
Medina, Saudi Arabia:
Jerusalem:
Jerusalem is home to Al-Masjid al-Aqsa, which is revered by Muslims as one of the holiest sites in Islam. The skyline of Jerusalem’s Old City is dominated by the gold-topped Dome of the Rock, built where it is believed Muhammad ascended to heaven.
Damascus:
Within the Levant, both the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus has held interchangeable significance as one of the holiest Islamic sites.
Hebron:
The Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron has also held interchangeable significance as one of the holiest Islamic sites.
After these first three sites as well as further sites associated with the family of Muhammad, there is a divergence between Sunni Muslims and Shia Muslims on the designation of additional holy sites. For Sunnis, sites associated with the Rashidun, other companions of Muhammad, and Biblical prophets hold a high level of significance (see holiest sites in Sunni Islam). For Shias, sites associated with the Imamah hold a high level of significance (see holiest sites in Shia Islam).
I hope this information helps you learn more about some of the holy places in Islam! 😊
