Latest news with #SalmanProjectfortheDevelopmentofHistoricMosques
Arab News
25-03-2025
- General
- Arab News
Historic Al-Safa Mosque in Baha restored in traditional Sarawat style
RIYADH: Al-Safa Mosque, a 13th-century landmark in the Baha region, has been restored as part of a national project, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The second phase of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historic Mosques aims to revitalize Baha's architectural heritage and highlight its cultural significance. The mosque, distinguished by its Sarawat-style construction, was renovated to preserve its historical integrity while enhancing its structural and aesthetic elements. The restoration in Baljurashi governorate prioritized the use of natural materials. Sarawat Mountain stone and locally sourced wood were used for the ceilings, columns, windows and doors, maintaining the structure's authenticity. The mosque's footprint, at 78 sq. meters, and its capacity, accommodating 31 worshippers, was unchanged by the restoration. Built about 1,350 years ago, Al-Safa Mosque is situated within a network of buildings and narrow passages typical of the region's high mountain villages. The structure is notable for its stone construction and limited openings. Distinctive juniper columns support the mosque, and the restoration includes preserving and redeveloping these columns, incorporating traditional staircase carvings. Historical accounts suggest that the mosque was established by the Prophet's companion Sufyan bin Auf Al-Ghamdi. Historically it served as a vital social hub, facilitating communal gatherings for resolving disputes and discussing village affairs, especially between Maghrib and Isha prayers. It is one of 30 mosques in 13 regions in phase two of the project, which includes six in Riyadh, five in Makkah, four in Madinah, three in Asir, and two each in the Eastern Province, Jouf, and Jazan. The Northern Borders, Tabuk, Baha, Najran, Hail and Qassim each have one mosque in the scheme. Phase two follows phase one, completed in 2018, in which 30 mosques were restored in 10 regions. Saudi companies and heritage restoration experts are leading the development efforts, according to the SPA. The project balances traditional and modern construction standards, ensuring the sustainability of mosque components while preserving heritage. Saudi companies and engineers specializing in heritage restoration are leading the development efforts, according to the report. The project's four strategic objectives include restoring historic mosques for worship, preserving architectural authenticity, highlighting the Kingdom's cultural heritage, and enhancing the religious and cultural significance of religious sites.
Arab News
18-03-2025
- General
- Arab News
Saudi project restoring Jazan mosque's heritage
RIYADH: The historic Al-Abbasa Mosque in Jazan's Abu Arish governorate is undergoing restoration as part of a national project, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The second phase of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historic Mosques aims to preserve its historical significance and secure its legacy for future generations. The mosque, dating to 1846, is one of the region's oldest and most significant heritage structures, the SPA reported on Tuesday. The Al-Abbasa Mosque will be restored to its original architectural grandeur, including its distinctive three domes, with natural building materials. The renovation will maintain the mosque's unique features, including the mihrab adorned with Qur'anic verses and the engraved panel indicating its construction date. The mosque's stone and brick construction will be preserved to uphold its historical and architectural significance, the SPA added. Upon completion, the mosque will cover an area of 435 sq. meters, accommodating 165 worshippers. It is one of 30 mosques across 13 regions included in phase two, which features six mosques in Riyadh, five in Makkah, four in Madinah, three in Asir, and two each in the Eastern Province, Jouf, and Jazan. One mosque is included in each of the Northern Borders, Tabuk, Baha, Najran, Hail, and Qassim. Phase two follows the successful completion of phase one in 2018, which restored 30 mosques in 10 regions, according to the SPA. Saudi Arabia companies and engineers specializing in heritage restoration are leading the development efforts, according to the report.
