Al-Safa Mosque, a 13th-century landmark in Al-Baha Region, is undergoing restoration as part of the Mohammed bin Salman Project for Developing Historic Mosques, now in its second phase. The mosque, distinguished by its Sarawat-style construction, is being meticulously renovated, preserving its historical integrity while enhancing its structural integrity and aesthetic elements.
Located in Baljurashi Governorate, Al-Safa Mosque, accessible via [https://goo.gl/maps/dfnwAJbeVWA4kS9r8], is undergoing a restoration process that prioritized the use of natural materials. Sarawat Mountain stones and locally sourced wood are employed in the ceilings, columns, windows, and doors, maintaining the architectural authenticity of the structure.
The mosque's footprint, at 78 square meters, and its capacity, accommodating 31 worshippers, remain unchanged following the restoration.
Constructed approximately 1,350 years ago, Al-Safa Mosque is situated within a network of adjacent buildings and narrow passages characteristic of the region's high mountain villages.
The structure is notable for its stone construction and limited openings. Distinctive juniper columns support the mosque's structure, and the restoration project includes the preservation and redevelopment of these columns, incorporating traditional staircase carvings. This initiative aims to revitalize the architectural heritage of Al-Baha and highlight its cultural significance.
Historical accounts suggest that the mosque was initially established by the Companion Sufyan ibn Auf al-Ghamdi. Al-Safa Mosque has historically served as a vital social hub, facilitating communal gatherings for the resolution of disputes and discussions of village affairs, particularly between Maghrib and Isha prayers.
Al-Safa Mosque is one of 30 mosques across all 13 regions of the Kingdom in the project's second phase, including six mosques in Riyadh, five in Makkah, four in Madinah, three in Aseer, two each in the Eastern Region, Al-Jouf, and Jazan, and one each in the Northern Borders, Tabuk, Al-Baha, Najran, Hail, and Qassim. The second phase follows the successful completion of the first, which restored 30 historic mosques across 10 regions.
The Mohammed bin Salman Project balances traditional and modern construction standards, ensuring the sustainability of mosque components while preserving heritage and historical characteristics. Saudi companies specializing in heritage restoration are carrying out the development.
The project's four strategic objectives include restoring historic mosques for worship, preserving their architectural authenticity, highlighting the Kingdom's cultural heritage, and enhancing their religious and cultural significance. The project also aligns with Vision 2030 by preserving architectural heritage and integrating it into modern mosque designs.
&uuid=(email))