Apart from Mecca there are other sites that are holy to our Muslim friends, and worth a visit
Hari Raya Haji or Eid al-Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice, has just passed. For the benefit of non-Muslim readers, this day commemorates the willingness of the prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as a submission to the command of God.
During this period, many also make the haj or Muslim pilgrimage to the city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia.
Apart from the haj to Mecca, there are other places that are holy and important to Muslims. We highlight a few, for a possible pilgrimage.
Al-Aqsa Mosque & Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem
One of the most popular pilgrimage destinations for Muslims is the Al-Aqsa Mosque in the Old City of Jerusalem. It is one of the holiest sites after Mecca and the tomb of the prophet Mohammed in Medina.
The Al-Aqsa includes elaborately-painted ceilings from Egypt’s King Farouk, and an intricately-carved mihrab (prayer niche indicating the direction of Mecca).
The silver-domed mosque and Sakara, known as the Dome of the Rock, is another one of the holiest Muslim sites. Located in the Old City of Jerusalem’s Muslim Quarter, its interior is stunning and lavishly decorated with mosaic, faience (tin-glazed pottery) and marble.
Muslims believe that this is where the Prophet Muhammad ascended into heaven. This site is a must-see for all Muslims and history enthusiasts.
Tomb of Prophet Ibrahim in Hebron, Palestine
Hebron is an ancient and historic city in the tumultuous area known as the West Bank, in Palestine. For Muslims, it is held as one of the holiest cities in Islam as it is contains the Tombs of the Patriachs, including the prophet Ibrahim (or Abraham to the Jews and Christians).
As this region can be volatile, only travel in a tour group and with an accredited tour leader.
The Great Mosque of Cordoba, Spain
Cordoba in Spain, is the capital of the southernmost region of Andalusia. During the Middle Ages, an Islamic Caliphate ruled much of southern Spain and Cordoba was the capital of this Islamic realm.
One of its legacies still remains. The great Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba is a unique architectural wonder, and still exhibits many Islamic features. It is one of the most iconic architectural monuments in the world.
The Alhambra of Granada, Spain
The Alhambra was an old Middle Age fort that was rebuilt into a majestic palace in the 1300s by the Sultan of Granada.
The Alhambra is grand beyond description, and has to be seen and experienced to be fully understood. Not surprisingly, many writers and poets waxed lyrical about this “Red Castle”.
It is divided into different sectors and its architecture comprises elements of both Christian and Islamic features.
To find out more, contact travel agents who specialise in Muslim pilgrimages.
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