Pilgrims visit holy sites in Madinah

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Mount Uhud: Photo/Hadiza Abdulrahman


As pilgrims continue their spiritual journey in the holy city of Madinah, one of the most profound experiences has been the Ziyara, a spiritual tour of sacred and historical Islamic landmarks.

Ziyara is a significant part of the pilgrimage experience in Madinah offering pilgrims the opportunity to connect with the footsteps of Prophet Muhammad and reflect on the early foundations of Islam

Among the key sites visited was Quba Mosque, recognized as the first mosque built by the Prophet and his companions upon his arrival in Madinah.

Quba Mosque

Pilgrims also stopped at Masjid al-Qiblatain, the mosque where the divine instruction to change the direction of prayer from Jerusalem to the Kaaba in Makkah was revealed.

Masjid al-Qiblatain: Photo/Hadiza Abdulrahman

The journey extended to the outskirts of the city, where Mount Uhud stands as a solemn reminder of sacrifice and resilience. It was the site of the historic Battle of Uhud—one of the most defining confrontations in early Islamic history.

At the foot of Mount Uhud lies a revered cemetery where 70 companions of the Prophet Muhammad are buried pilgrims often pause here to offer prayers for their souls and reflect on their sacrifice.

Nigerian Pilgrims offering prayers at the cemetery of the 70 companions

Another notable site was the Well of Ghars, historically linked to the Prophet’s personal life and, according to tradition, the well he wished to be washed from after death.
Ghars Well

“Haruna Saidu, a Nigerian pilgrim from Gombe, described the experience as worthwhile, particularly the visit to the cemetery where the martyrs are buried and the mosque, where he intended to pray two rakats as part of the religious rites during the visitation.

Another pilgrim, Mohammed Kumo from Gombe State, said the visitation is a reflection of deep spiritual connection and a reminder of the sacrifices made by early believers

Ali Drame, a pilgrim from Senegal, described the experience as both inspiring and unifying, bringing people together in shared devotion and a common purpose.”



Meanwhile, Mallam Yahya Garba, the Chief Imam of Area 10 Mosque in Abuja and a member of the Ulama Committee of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), explained that while visiting historical sites in Madinah is not mandatory, it is highly recommended and spiritually rewarding.

He also advised pilgrims to make the most of their time in Madinah by seeking spiritual benefit, avoiding distractions, and managing their spending wisely.


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