📖 About Medina

Medina (Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, "The Radiant City") is Islam's second holiest city after Mecca, located in western Saudi Arabia. With approximately 1.5 million residents, this sacred city is home to the Prophet's Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi), containing the tomb of Prophet Muhammad. The city holds profound significance as the destination of the Hijra (migration) from Mecca in 622 CE—the event that marks the start of the Islamic calendar.

Unlike Mecca, Medina is technically accessible to non-Muslims, though the Prophet's Mosque area is restricted. The mosque itself has been vastly expanded—its distinctive green dome over the Prophet's tomb and massive umbrellas that shade the courtyards are iconic. Many pilgrims combine visits to both holy cities; Medina is often visited before or after Hajj. The city is also home to the historic Quba Mosque, the first mosque in Islam, and Uhud battlefield.

Medina offers Muslim visitors profound spiritual experience at the Prophet's Mosque, early Islamic history, and connection to the origins of the faith.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Medina's economy revolves around religious pilgrimage and services. Hotels, restaurants, transportation, and religious goods serve millions of visitors annually. The massive expansion of the Prophet's Mosque and surrounding infrastructure has driven construction. Government and religious administration employ many. Agriculture (especially dates from the famous oases) continues historic traditions. Unlike Mecca, some limited industry exists outside the sacred center. The economy is intimately connected to the religious calendar and pilgrimage seasons.

Medina's culture is defined by Islamic devotion and connection to the Prophet's life. Arabic is universal; visitors bring diverse languages during pilgrimage seasons. Life revolves around prayer times and the mosque. The atmosphere is more relaxed than Mecca, though equally devout. Historic sites connect to early Islam—the Prophet lived here for ten years, and many companions are buried in the city. Traditional hospitality is paramount. Food includes Saudi cuisine and international options for pilgrims. The spiritual significance is profound; Muslims consider visiting the Prophet's Mosque among the most blessed experiences possible.

📜 History

Medina (originally Yathrib) was a prosperous oasis city before Islam. In 622 CE, Prophet Muhammad and his followers migrated from Mecca—the Hijra—establishing the first Muslim community. The Prophet built his mosque here and governed the growing Muslim community until his death in 632 CE. He was buried in his house, which became part of the mosque.

Medina served as capital of the Rashidun and Umayyad Caliphates before power shifted elsewhere. The city remained profoundly significant spiritually while declining politically. Ottoman rule brought some development; Saudi control came in the 20th century. The Prophet's Mosque has been expanded numerous times, especially under Saudi rule, growing from a simple structure to one of the world's largest mosques. Today Medina continues its 1,400-year role as Islam's second city, where the Prophet's presence remains tangibly felt.