Masjid Quba
Masjid Quba is located on the outskirts of Medina and is one of the oldest mosques in the world, having been built in the 7th century. It is considered one of the holiest sites for Muslims worldwide.
Importance in Islam
The Quba Mosque holds significant importance in Islamic history and is mentioned in the Holy Quran as the mosque built on “piety.” It is also where the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and his companion Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) first stayed after migrating to Medina. Furthermore, it is believed that the first stones of the mosque were laid by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself upon his arrival in Medina.
Ibn Umar reported: “The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to go to the Quba Mosque (sometimes) on foot and sometimes on horseback.” Nafi added (in another narration), “He would then offer two Rakats (in the Quba Mosque).” [Sahih Al-Bukhari]
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever purifies himself at home and comes to Masjid Quba and offers two Rakats will have the reward of an Umrah.” [Sunan ibn Majah]
Architecture
Since its construction, the mosque has undergone numerous renovations under various caliphs and later by the Saudi government. Made of white marble, the alabaster structure is both contemporary and simple. The mosque features six domes and four minarets.
There is a large prayer hall surrounding a central courtyard made of black, white, and red marble. The courtyard has several entrances, with the northern section reserved for women’s prayers. The mosque can accommodate over 20,000 worshippers at a time. It is currently being expanded to accommodate even more visitors from around the world, Insha’Allah.
Masjid Quba is about a 10-minute drive from Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. However, there is now a newly designed walkway between Al-Masjid an-Nabawi and Masjid Quba, which takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes to walk. The starting point on the Al-Masjid an-Nabawi side is from the new Quba Walkway Park.
