RIYADH — Saudi Arabia's historical mosques serve as enduring testaments to the architectural evolution and human perseverance in the Arabian Peninsula.

Over different times, these edifices have been meticulously preserved, a commitment manifested in the Program for the Reconstruction of Historical Mosques.

The program has received the generous support of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and the Crown Prince.

It is being implemented under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture in partnership with the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, and the Al-Turath Philanthropy Foundation.

The program for the Reconstruction of Historical Mosques aims to safeguard the historical identity of mosques.

In the Riyadh region, mosques are notably characterized by their simple architectural style, featuring an open interior and minimal external apertures that harmonize with the local climatic conditions.

They are decorated with lamps on pillars and pointed arches. A wall encloses the mosque's outer courtyard, while the basement is situated beneath the mosque.

The minarets are integrated into the mosque's walls, exhibiting a circular or square configuration, with their diameter narrowing towards the top due to the use of mud, water, and straw in their construction.

The ceilings are fashioned from tamarisk wood and palm fronds. In contrast, some others are made of the roots of palm trees and adorned with geometric stucco motifs embellished on the layer of plaster coating the walls, such as congruent triangles and terraces.

The Riyadh region boasts a plethora of historical mosques, including the renowned Qaran Mosque, one of Islam's oldest mosques constructed in the Al-Yamamah region, formerly known as Al Qarinah, approximately 80 kilometers northwest of Riyadh.

Al-Husseini Mosque is another outstanding structure located in Riyadh's Shaqra governorate, with its origins dating back to the 12th century AH. The mosque was renovated in 1431 AH through the contributions of the local people.

Al-Dakhlah Mosque in Al-Majma’ah stands as one of the oldest historical mosques. The mosque was constructed between 850 and 900 AH, north of Riyadh. Residents of Al-Dakhlah town used to hold the Friday noon prayers at the mosque. Renovation of the mosque began in 1432 AH but was not completed.

Another noteworthy mosque is Al-Zarqa Mosque, located north of the old town of Tharmada, between Marat and Shaqra. Built using a combination of clay and stone, the mosque boasts a roof fashioned from tamarisk wood and palm fronds.

It was initially built between 1259 and 1282 AH during the era of Imam Faisal bin Turki on 326 square meters to accommodate 100 worshippers. Al-Zarqa Mosque was rebuilt and expanded under the direction of King Abdulaziz Bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud to accommodate the growing number of worshipers.

Qasr Al-Shariah Mosque was built in the Al-Hayatham center, west of Al-Kharj Governorate and south of Riyadh, in 1338 AH. After being refurbished recently, the mosque now comprises a courtyard, a retreat, toilets, and washing rooms for men and women.

Its total area spans 371 square meters, and it can accommodate up to 150 worshippers.

Beyond its religious significance, Qasr Al-Shariah Mosque is a vital cultural and educational hub for the village inhabitants. In the past, the mosque hosted lessons and Qur’an memorization classes. — SPA