Historical Places
Masjid al-Khayf
Makkah
A mosque located at the southern end of Mina, near Jamarat al-Sughra, at the foot of the mountain. During the Farewell Hajj, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ performed prayer here while staying in Mina, and it is mentioned in hadith that many prophets before him also prayed at this place. The word “Khayf” means a mountain slope or low-lying place, a name derived from the mosque’s location. The mosque has been renovated and rebuilt at various times throughout history. The present structure was built during the Saudi era, covers approximately twenty-five thousand square metres, and can accommodate thousands of worshippers at one time. It is widely used during the days of Hajj and generally remains closed for the rest of the year.
More places in Makkah
Arafat and Masjid Namirah
A vast plain east of Makkah, where the pilgrims stay on 9 Dhul-Hijjah. This wuquf is the principal pillar of Hajj. Masjid Namirah is located at the western edge of the plain.
Jamarat
The three pillars located in Mina, at which pilgrims throw pebbles. This is an obligatory rite of Hajj, associated with the memory of Ibrahim (peace be upon him).
Muzdalifah and al-Mash‘ar al-Haram
An open area situated between Arafat and Mina, where pilgrims stay on the night of 9 Dhul-Hijjah. The mountain here is called Mash'ar al-Haram.
Mina—the City of Tents
A valley located between Makkah and Muzdalifah, where the pilgrims stay during the days of Hajj. This place is the center for the Jamarat, sacrifice, and the nights of Tashriq.
The birthplace of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ (according to tradition)
A site located in the Shi'b Banu Hashim area near al-Masjid al-Haram, where the Messenger of Allah ﷺ is traditionally believed to have been born. There is now a library there.
Jabal Thawr and the Cave of Thawr
A small cave hidden on the steep slopes of Jabal Thawr, south of Makkah. During the Hijrah, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ and Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) took refuge here for three nights.