Masjid al-Haram

Meaning

Like a white tide, people circle slowly around a single point, and the resonance of it surrounds you.

Regarded as the holiest mosque in Islam; during the Hajj pilgrimage, believers from across the world gather to circle the Kaaba at its heart.

Field notes

Location

Mecca · Saudi Arabia · N21.4° · E39.8°

Best time

During the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage seasons, or at any of the five daily prayers

Getting there

Entry is reserved for Muslims; pilgrims typically travel to Mecca by way of Jeddah.

Etiquette

As a sacred precinct, the mosque's visiting guidelines are carefully observed.

Sources

• · Encyclopaedia Britannica
• · UNESCO

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