Zamzam Well, Sacred water well in Grand Mosque, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
This well sits about twenty meters east of the Kaaba and reaches thirty meters down through sediment and rock layers beneath the mosque. Modern pumps draw water from the Wadi Ibrahim deposits below.
Abdul Muttalib, grandfather of Prophet Muhammad, uncovered the well in the sixth century after it remained hidden during earlier tribal conflicts. This rediscovery restored access to a source that had seemed lost.
Pilgrims fill containers with this water during every visit and consider it a blessed part of their journey. Many bring it home to share with family or use during religious occasions.
The water is tested daily and distributed through a system in operation since nineteen sixty-four to supply millions of visitors throughout the year. Access is within the mosque, with main areas open to all pilgrims.
The water holds higher mineral content than ordinary drinking water and is used in ceremonies across the mosque grounds. Despite distance from the original shaft, the source remains present for worshipers through the distribution system.
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