About
Al-Masjid al-Qiblatayn, also known as the Mosque of the Two Qiblas, stands on Khalid Ibn Al Walid Street in Medina, Saudi Arabia. It is a historic mosque, and its name points to its story: it is where the Prophet Muhammad received the revelation to change the direction of prayer from Jerusalem to Mecca.
What to see
The mosque is notable for its architecture. It is the only mosque in the world with two mihrabs, the niches that mark the direction of prayer, one facing towards Jerusalem and one towards Mecca. Standing inside, visitors can see both directions marked in the same building, which gives a clear, physical sense of the moment the mosque commemorates.
Why visit
This is a visit for anyone interested in the history of Islam and the early community in Medina. It is a short, focused stop rather than a sprawling site, and it suits those who want to pair it with time spent exploring the rest of the city.
- Who it suits: visitors with an interest in religious history and the origins of the qibla
- What makes it distinctive: two mihrabs, one for each of the two directions
- Location: Khalid Ibn Al Walid Street, Medina
Because the mosque sits within Medina, it fits easily into a wider trip to the city, where other historic sites and the Prophet's Mosque are also part of the local visitor experience. Visitors are encouraged to check arrangements and local guidance before going, and to dress and behave respectfully in a place of worship.
