The Mecca Cemetery, situated near Jannat al-Mu’alla, approximately 2 km north of Harem al-Shareef, commands a hill that overlooks the city. Reflecting on ancient traditions, this site earned the name “Masjid al-Hurras,” meaning the Mosque of the Guards, as it was once a gathering place for night guards changing shifts to secure Mecca. Over time, a mosque was erected on this hill, later named the Mosque of the Jinns.
In 1700, the first mosque at this location was built by the architect Ibrahim Aga, who had arrived in Mecca. However, the structure constructed in 1362 (1943) was demolished in 2000 and subsequently reconstructed.
A significant event linked to this site is Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) performance of the morning prayer on this land upon returning from Ta’if three years before the Hijrah. During this prayer, he recited the Qur’an, and the divine words were heard and believed by seven jinn individuals.
The rich history of the Mecca Cemetery, evolving from a gathering place for guards to a mosque with spiritual significance, highlights the deep-rooted traditions and sacred moments associated with this revered site.