Sightseeing in Mecca - what to see. Complete travel guide

Numerous travelers know Mecca as the location of unique religious landmarks. This is the most frequently visited city of Saudi Arabia, and Muslim pilgrims, without a doubt, make up the majority of visitors. It’s important to mention that the holy city of Mecca is closed to non-Muslim people. The unique religious landmark of international importance - Al Haram Mosque , the largest mosque in the world, is open there.

Mecca is famous not only for its priceless religious landmarks. It’s an incredibly beautiful and dynamic place with numerous interesting architectural decorations. The complex of Abraj Al-Bait Towers deserves the closest attention of travelers. One of the towers of Abraj Al-Bait is present in the list of the highest skyscrapers in the world. The ultra-modern architectural complex is the location of high-class hotels and restaurants, so numerous guests of the city enjoy visiting it not only because of its gorgeous look. Modern Mecca is full of unique peculiarities that are related to not only its historical and architectural look. It is one of the hottest cities in the world. In summer, the temperature is often above 45C. However, this fact doesn’t affect thousands of pilgrims who arrive in the city every year in order to bow to the sacred place.

According to one theory, the first city on the site of modern Mecca appeared yet during the prehistoric era. In accordance with a legend, the city was founded by descendants of Prophet Ishmael, the son of Abraham who is mentioned in the Bible. The history of Mecca is full of interesting peculiarities. Just like many ancient cities of the planet, Mecca had to endure many wars. During thousands of years, the city became home to representatives of different empires. However, Mecca always had a status of an important religious center and was never losing its holy atmosphere. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The period of the Saudi reign was one of the most complicated in the history of the city. Starting from 1985, the city suffered much damage, and many historic landmarks created thousands of years ago were, unfortunately, lost forever. Modern Mecca is not only the largest pilgrimage center of the country but also one of the most frequently visited religious centers in the world. Despite the fact that foreign guests arrive in the city exclusively to visit the holy shrines, Mecca is ready to provide them with everything needed for a luxurious stay.

The choice of modern hotels and stylish restaurants is incredibly rich. There are also many picturesque markets and workshops that sell interesting items and handmade souvenirs. Tourists who love jewelry will be absolutely charmed by Mecca. Both men and women will find a wide range of accessories made of precious metals. A great choice of jewelry pieces with semiprecious stones is one of the main peculiarities of local jewelry salons. Local craftsmen know virtually anything about stones and their properties, and they will gladly help visitors find not only the most beautiful but also the most useful jewelry for any client.

The exploration of picturesque streets of Mecca will leave many warm memories for fans of excursions. The city is rich in beautiful buildings and unique historic landmarks. That said, Mecca is an incredibly harmonious city. There are no large entertainment complexes and loud nightclubs, but the choice of routes for walking and exploring places of interest is incredibly wide.

Don’t forget to attend local markets and shops during your vacation in Mecca as they offer a wide range of souvenirs and gifts for friends and family members. The majority of popular souvenirs have a connection with religion in some way or another. For example, the majority of shops offer white colored national clothes. It is also possible to purchase unique souvenirs, such as small flasks with holy water from the sacred Zamzam Well. It is important to mention that everyone can fill small bottles with water from the well on their own absolutely free of charge.

Traditional souvenir shops offer various fragrant oils and perfumes created on their basis. Female visitors simply cannot resist jewelry in the traditional Arabian style that often comes with precious and semiprecious stones. Beads, headwear in the national style, and special carpets for prayers handmade by local craftsmen are also popular categories of souvenirs. Visit local markets in order to shop for amazing oriental sweets. For example, travelers are simply in love with local figs. Of course, there are usual shopping centers in Mecca that offer clothes, accessories, and perfumes by internationally famous brands.