Kaaba mecca aerial

Aerial view of the Kaaba in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the holiest site in Islam, towards which Muslims pray daily.

About this subject

The Kaaba, located in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, is the spiritual center of Islam. Its cubic shape, covered by a black cloth called the kiswa, houses the Black Stone in its eastern corner. It is believed to have been built by Abraham and his son Ishmael, and later rebuilt several times throughout history. Today, it stands about 13 meters high, with sides approximately 11 meters long.

Every Muslim is required to perform the pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj or Umrah) at least once in their lifetime, which includes circling the Kaaba seven times counterclockwise. This ritual, called tawaf, symbolizes the unity of believers in worship of Allah. The Kaaba also serves as the qibla, the direction Muslims face during their five daily prayers, no matter where they are in the world.

The area around the Kaaba, the Great Mosque (Masjid al-Haram), is one of the largest in the world, accommodating millions of worshippers during the Hajj. Recent expansions have increased the mosque's capacity, with additional floors and an enlarged courtyard. The aerial view shows the Kaaba at the center, surrounded by concentric circles of worshippers and the modern architecture of the mosque.

Notably, the Kaaba is not only a religious symbol but also a cultural landmark that unites Muslims from diverse backgrounds. The kiswa is replaced annually during the Hajj, produced in a specialized factory in Mecca. The history of the Kaaba includes pre-Islamic times when it was a sanctuary for various polytheistic tribes before the conquest of Mecca by Muhammad.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Kaaba?

The Kaaba is a cuboid building at the center of the Great Mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and is the holiest site in Islam. Muslims believe it was built by Abraham and Ishmael.

Why do Muslims circle the Kaaba?

Circling the Kaaba, known as tawaf, is an Islamic ritual symbolizing exclusive worship of Allah and the unity of believers. It is performed during the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.

What is the Black Stone on the Kaaba?

The Black Stone is a dark rock, believed to be of celestial origin, set into the eastern corner of the Kaaba. Pilgrims attempt to kiss or touch it during tawaf as an act of veneration.