Renovation of Qasr Al-Sharia Mosque… architectural originality and modern sustainability

Continue Historic MosquesThe development of which reflects the depth of the religious and social history in the region.

The mosque is located in the city of Al-Haytham, west of Al-Kharj Governorate, south of the city of Riyadh. It is considered one of the historical mosques that are linked to the history of the old city, as it represented, over many decades, a center of worship and a place where the people of the region gather to perform prayers and hold religious and educational activities.

Ancient architectural style

The mosque is distinguished by its Najdi architectural style. Traditionally, it was built using clay and stone, while its roof was designed from tamarisk wood and palm fronds, which reflects the traditional construction methods for which the architecture of the central region is famous.

The mosque also contributed to performing an important religious and educational role, as it hosted the sessions of teaching the Holy Qur’an and writing, in addition to religious lessons and lectures.

The establishment of the mosque dates back to the year 1338 AH, during the reign of King Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman – may God have mercy on him. – This was after the founding of the old town in Al-Haytham, and its historical importance is highlighted by its connection to the site of the Sharia Palace, which includes the Saud Grand Palace and Al-Bajadi Palace, which reflects the historical status that the site enjoyed at that stage.

The area of the mosque before the development work was about 314 square meters, with a capacity of up to about 90 worshippers, and it consists of a prayer house, a courtyard (an open outer courtyard surrounded by walls), in addition to a retreat. (basement) is characterized by its coolness in the summer and warmth during the winter, and it is one of the traditional architectural features associated with the mosques of the region.

With its inclusion within Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s project to develop historical mosques, the mosque underwent development works aimed at preserving its architectural identity and re-emphasizing it as a religious and heritage landmark. After the development, its area increased to about 371 square meters, and its capacity for worshipers increased to about 150, with the addition of facilities. Services include restrooms for men and women.

Historical religious landmark

The Qasr Al Sharia Mosque represents one of the historical religious landmarks in the city of Al Hayatham in Al Kharj Governorate. It also embodies an inherited religious and social value that reflects the importance of preserving historical mosques as part of the cultural and urban identity of the Kingdom.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s project to develop historical mosques works to achieve a balance between traditional construction standards and modern technologies, giving the components of the mosques a degree Suitable for sustainability, while preserving the authentic architectural and heritage characteristics of each mosque. Development work is also carried out by Saudi companies specializing in heritage buildings, and under the supervision of Saudi engineers to ensure the preservation of the historical urban identity of the mosques.

The project is based on four strategic objectives: rehabilitating historical mosques for worship and prayer, restoring their urban authenticity, highlighting the cultural dimension of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and enhancing the religious and cultural status of historical mosques, in a way that contributes to highlighting the urban heritage. for the Kingdom and preserve it for future generations.

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