Masjid Quba (مسجد قباء) is located on the outskirts of Madinah, and is one of the oldest mosques in the world as it was built in the 7th century. It is considered to be one of the holiest sites for Muslims around the world after The Two Holy Mosques.
Importance in Islam
Quba Mosque has a significant place in Islamic history and is also mentioned in the Holy Quran as being the mosque that was built on ‘piety’. It was also where The Prophet Muhammad, Peace and Blessings of God Be Upon Him (PBUH) and his companion Abu Bakr (RA) first stayed after migrating to Madinah. Moreover it is believed that the first stones of the mosque were position by The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself when he came to Madinah.
Narrated Ibn Umar: “The Prophet (PBUH) used to go to the Mosque of Quba (sometimes) walking and sometimes riding.” Added Nafi (in another narration), “He then would offer two Rakat (in the Mosque of Quba).” [Sahih Al-Bukhari]
The Prophet (PBUH) said: “He who purifies himself at his home and comes to Masjid Quba and offers two rakats therein, will be rewarded the reward of an Umrah (lesser pilgrimage).” [Sunan ibn Majah]
Architecture & Expansion
Since its construction, the mosque has undergone many renovations under the many caliphs, and later, the Saudi government itself. Made from white marble, the alabaster structure looks contemporary yet simple at the same time. The mosque is characterized by its six domes and four minarets.
There is a large praying hall that surrounds a central courtyard which is made up of black, white, and red marble. The courtyard has several entrances, among which the northern section is reserved as a women’s praying area. The mosque can accommodate more than 20 thousand worshippers at a time. It is now due to be extended again to a much larger size to accommodate more worshipers from around the world, Insha'Allah
The Quba Walkway Park
Masjid Quba is a 10-minute drive from Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. However, there is now a new purpose made walkway from near Al Masjid An Nabawi to Masjid Quba which takes approximately 40-45 minutes on foot. The starting point from the Al Masjid An Nabawi side is from the new Quba Walkway Park.
