Latest news with #FouadAl-Maghamsi
Saudi Gazette
29-05-2025
- Saudi Gazette
Hadiyah Castle served pilgrims as a key stop and water source
Saudi Gazette report ALULA — Overlooking the northern part of Madinah, Hadiya Castle stands from a high vantage point between Wadi al-Tabaq and Wadi Khaybar. It embodies a rich historical legacy that tells the story of centuries of pilgrims and traders traveling from the Levant to Makkah. The archaeological site of Hadiyah Castle is one of the most prominent strategic points on the Levantine Hajj Route. It is likely that it was used as a station for pilgrims beginning in the pre-Islamic era, given its direct role in securing the route and providing comfort and supplies to caravans heading to Makkah. This made it a major transit point on this historic route. The castle was built in a strategic area overlooking a pond designated for collecting rainwater, making it an important source of water for pilgrims and a center for supplying them with provisions. The castle includes four defensive towers at its corners, three of which still stand, while the fourth has been affected by the effects of time. The traveler Ibn Battuta referred to this site in his documented journey in the year 726 AH, describing the location of the castle by saying: 'It is a well of water in a valley where they dig, and water comes out, and on the third day they descend into the holy, noble, and honorable city,' referring to the castle's proximity to Madinah and its pivotal position on the road. Historian and Islamic history researcher Dr. Fouad Al-Maghamsi explained that "Hadiya," located in Wadi Al-Tabaq, enjoys a strategic location between Madinah and Al-Ula, approximately 169 kilometers north of the city. It was a major stop for pilgrims and trade caravans in ancient times, thanks to its convenient location on one of the historical stated that the site gained additional importance at the beginning of the twentieth century with the launch of the railway line, when an official station called "Hadiyah" was established as part of a series of major stations along this vital stretch.
Arab News
13-03-2025
- General
- Arab News
Masjid Al-Fas'h in Madinah meticulously restored
RIYADH: A historical gem nestled at the foot of Mount Uhud, north of Madinah, Al-Fas'h Mosque stands as a reminder of the Battle of Uhud, a pivotal moment in Islamic history. This has a special place in the history of Islam because it is also where Prophet Muhammad is believed to have prayed, and attracts visitors from around the world, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently. Historian Dr. Fouad Al-Maghamsi highlighted Al-Fas'h Mosque's significance within the wider historical landscape of Uhud, which includes Jabal Al-Rumah and Wadi Qanat. Known as Uhud Mosque or Sha'b Al-Jerar Mosque, Al-Fas'h has been meticulously preserved and restored. 'The remnants of Al-Fas'h Mosque, enclosed by a roughly 1-meter-high stone wall on three sides, measure 6 meters in length and 4 meters in width,' said Al-Maghamsi. He added that this landmark, constructed with resilient black stones, has endured through centuries and undergone numerous restorations, most recently under the reign of King Salman, as part of a broader initiative to revitalize historical sites. The mosque's simple yet distinctive architecture features a rectangular prayer space and a mihrab crafted from red bricks. Recent restoration efforts, overseen by the Saudi Heritage Commission, have introduced a wooden roof, a floor of artistically arranged yellow natural stones, paved surrounding areas, seating, and informative signage. The mosque's location, approximately 4.5 km north of Al-Masjid Al-Nabawi or the Prophet's Mosque, places it in the heart of an area rich with Islamic heritage. Its proximity to the Uhud battlefield, roughly 800 meters away, makes it an integral part of the sacred landscape of Madinah.
