Mecca Masjid/Makkah Masjid, Hyderabad

 

Mecca/Makkah Masjid, located in the heart of Hyderabad, India, is one of the largest and oldest mosques in the country. Its name, "Mecca/Makkah Masjid" is derived from the city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, as the central arch of the mosque is said to have been made from soil brought from Mecca. The mosque is an iconic symbol of Hyderabad’s rich Islamic heritage and stands near the historic Charminar in the old city.

The rest of the article is after the following photographs and video.

Reminiscing our visits to Mecca Masjid and Charminar – Video:

History and Construction

Foundation: The construction of the Mecca Masjid began in 1614 during the reign of Sultan Muhammad Qutb Shah, the sixth ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. The mosque took nearly 77 years to complete and was finished in 1693 under the orders of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.

Architecture: The mosque is an architectural marvel, built primarily with granite. It is an excellent example of Indo-Islamic architecture with elements of Persian influence. The main prayer hall is massive, measuring 75 feet in height, 220 feet in width, and 180 feet in length, accommodating up to 10,000 worshippers at a time.

Notable Features

Granite Blocks: The mosque is constructed from enormous blocks of granite, some of which are said to weigh up to 40 tons. A massive structure comprising buffaloes reportedly transported these blocks.

Main Hall: The main prayer hall has 15 graceful arches—five each on three sides. The roof is supported by these arches and a central dome.

Minarets and Domes: Unlike many mosques, Mecca Masjid does not have towering minarets. However, it features 15 intricately designed domes and three distinct façades.

Details: The mosque is adorned with ornate floral motifs, inscriptions from the Quran, and intricate latticework, which showcases the craftsmanship of the artisans of that era.

Significance

Religious Importance: As one of the most important mosques in Hyderabad, Mecca Masjid is a significant place of worship for Muslims. It holds special importance during Islamic festivals like Eid when thousands of worshippers gather here for prayers.

Historical Value: The mosque has witnessed centuries of Hyderabad’s history, from the Qutb Shahi dynasty to the era of the Nizams and beyond. It has stood through political changes, serving as a symbol of the city’s resilience and spiritual legacy.

Modern Day

Tourist Attraction: Today, Mecca Masjid is not only a place of worship but also a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to admire its architecture and experience its serene atmosphere.

Cultural Hub: The mosque is part of the old city’s cultural fabric and is often visited alongside other historic sites like the Charminar, Chowmahalla Palace, and the Laad Bazaar.

Mecca Masjid is a testament to Hyderabad's rich history and cultural diversity, blending architectural beauty with religious significance, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.