The narrow lanes, beautiful mosques, and traditional homes of Al-Balad make it the oldest neighborhood in Jeddah. Originally, it served as a hub for travelers on route to Makkah. Leaving from Al-Balad, one may reach the magnificent Bab Makkah entrance, which marks the beginning of the Makkah road that leads to Makkah, the holiest city in Islam. Al-Balad is historically significant because of its ties to Saudi Arabia. The existence of Bab e Makkah has led to the area around it being named the “Gateway to Makkah.” Jeddah is home to this ancient district, which dates back many centuries. A UNESCO World Heritage Site designation also applies to this location. In the seventh century, the Al-Balad was built. After the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, Jeddah is the biggest city in the country. This region was once its beating heart.
A Mosque Named Shaffie
Hazrat Umar (AS), the second caliph of Islam, died away in Saudi Arabia, and shortly afterward, construction began on Masjid Shaffie, commonly known as the Umar Mosque. Similarly, this mosque may be seen at Al Balad. In spite of its age, roughly 1,400 years, the building remains in perfect shape because of increased renovations. The magnificent building is 800 years old, making it not only the oldest building in town but also the largest. A vast freshwater reservoir, formerly used for domestic purposes but now serving other purposes, can be found within the mosque as well.
Bait Nassif
The most noteworthy building in Al-Balad is Bait Nassif, which sits at the beginning of the ancient pilgrimage route. King Abdulaziz, the founder of Saudi Arabia, lived here in Jeddah for three years. The towering building is one of the most cared-for in the area. The building is now undergoing further renovations in anticipation of its future reopening as a museum or art gallery. Early this year, Christie’s held a special fundraising event in the residence, selling 43 pieces of contemporary art to raise money for the town’s reconstruction. The house has retained its magnificence throughout the many changes that have been made to it.
Museum of Folk Art
Angawi, a young Saudi carpenter, is in charge of the area around Bait Nassif. He employs traditional methods to create novel embellishments that are inspired by Islamic ideas rather than Islamic aesthetics. Walk about the area, and you’re certain to run across his artworks scattered over the plaza or on display at The House of Traditional Arts.
With the luxury Umrah Packages, pilgrims may have the opportunity to visit this place. Pilgrims seeking the beauty of Saudi Arabia and a deeper understanding of the country’s rich history might include a ziarat of this region, which is an optional part of different packages.
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