Kaaba, Sacred shrine in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
The Kaaba is a cube-shaped stone structure standing 13 meters (43 feet) high in the center of Masjid al-Haram mosque, considered the oldest sanctuary in Islam. Black cloth drapes cover its upper walls and flat roof, while the base remains bare gray stone creating a clear contrast with the surrounding white marble courtyard.
The structure underwent several reconstructions over many centuries, with a major restoration following fire damage during the 683 siege of Mecca by Umayyad forces. Further modifications occurred during Ottoman rule, when the present form emerged with improved foundations and reinforced walls designed to withstand natural forces and large crowds.
Pilgrims circumambulate the structure seven times counterclockwise upon arrival, performing a ritual that physically draws each participant into the spiritual center of Islamic faith. Visitors witness the continuous movement of worshippers day and night, creating a human current that never stops and forms a living expression of devotion shared across every corner of the Muslim world.
The structure receives a new black silk covering called Kiswah each year on the first day of Muharram, installed through specific ceremonial procedures. Visitors can view the sanctuary from multiple levels of the surrounding mosque, with lower floors offering closer proximity while upper galleries provide an overview of the movement of pilgrims below.
The eastern corner holds the Black Stone, set in silver bands, which pilgrims attempt to touch during their seven counterclockwise circuits. The gold-embroidered calligraphy on the Kiswah is created each year by artisans in a dedicated workshop in Mecca, following traditional patterns that reproduce centuries-old verses and religious texts.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
