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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 not a place where you can go for children's entertainment. Of course, there are playgrounds here like in any major city. They are located both in the open air and on the territory … Open
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.
Muslim pilgrims fill Mecca in the Dhu al-Hijjah month. This is the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Dhu'l-Hijjah does not depend on the time of year. It is determined solely from … Open
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.
Every landmark of Mecca is a truly unique place. Al Haram Mosque is, without a doubt, the main symbol of the city and the religious landmark of the international level. According to … Open
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.
Mecca - guide chapters 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

City tours, excursions and tickets in Mecca and surroundings

Sights around Mecca from our guide 'Extreme places on Earth'

Abraj Al-Bait Towers

From the series “Elegant Architectural Structures for Fans of Skywalks”
Construction of the architectural complex was completed in 2012. Today, along with significant historical and religious sites of Mecca, it is one of the most popular tourist sites. There are several options to look at the Mecca from a height. You can rent one of the rooms in the hotel and enjoy the attractions, or reserve a table by the window in one of the restaurants and have a romantic dinner. In addition, there is an amazing Islamic Museum and the Lunar Observation Center, which are also open to the public. … Read further

Tower Abraj al-Bait

From the series “The Highest Buildings in the World”
This unique skyscraper was completed in 2012. It became the world champion on a number of parameters. First of all, the complex is the heaviest in the world and the second in height; it’s only behind the Burj Khalifa. The planet's tallest hotel is a part of the architectural structure, as well as the highest clock tower. This large-scale architectural complex is located in close proximity to Al-Haram, which is considered a major religious landmark of Mecca. … Read further

Sightseeing in Saudi Arabia: things to see

The Great Mosque, Masjid al-Haram, remains of the most famous destination in Mecca. This mosque hosts a priceless religious artifact of all Muslims - the Black Stone. According to a legend, this stone was gifted by God to Adam and Eve as a symbol of forgiveness. The mosque amazes visitors with its size and beautiful design. … Open
Car rental on OrangeSmile.com Rentals in Mecca

Expo 2020 in Dubai Was Visited by More Than 7 Million Visitors

If you haven’t visited this event yet, there is still time to book a hotel in Dubai because Expo 2020 Dubai runs until 31 March 2022. People who are unable to visit the emirate can make a virtual tour on the Expo 2020 website. By the way, the virtual visitation has already reached 31.6 million by the end of December. Read this

19.03.2024

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Sightseeing in regions nearby Mecca

All about Mecca, Saudi Arabia - sightseeings, attractions, touristic spots, architecture, history, culture and cuisine. Prepare your trip together with OrangeSmile.com - find out the 'must see' things in Mecca, which places to visit, which excursions to take, where the breathtaking views are waiting for you. Planning your trip with this travel guide will help your to get the most out of Mecca in few days.
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