The Seven Mosques (Al-Masajid Al-Sab'ah) mark the site of the Battle of the Trench (Ghazwa Khandaq). This is where the Muslims dug a deep trench to defend Madinah against the Confederate armies.
Historically, these were small prayer spots used by different companions. Today, a large, modern mosque (Masjid Al-Fath) dominates the site, but the smaller historical structures remain.
The Mosques
Actually, there are currently six structures, but traditionally they are known as seven.
- Masjid Al-Fath (The Victory): On the hilltop. It is where the Prophet (PBUH) made dua for victory for three days, and it was granted.
- Masjid Salman Al-Farsi: Named after the companion who proposed the idea of digging the trench.
- Masjid Abu Bakr As-Siddiq
- Masjid Umar bin Khattab
- Masjid Ali bin Abi Talib
- Masjid Fatimah Az-Zahra (Also known as Masjid Saad bin Muadh).
The Battle of the Trench (5 AH)
- Strategy: A defensive trench (~5.5km long) prevented enemy cavalry from entering the city.
- Result: A cold wind sent by Allah destroyed the enemy camp after a month-long siege.
Visiting Tips
- Location: Located on the western side of Mount Sala.
- Timing: Best visited in the morning (7 AM - 11 AM) as part of a general Ziyarat tour.
- Modernization: The site has been beautifully renovated. The large new white mosque is fully air-conditioned and holds daily prayers.
Pros and Cons of Visiting
Pros:
- Deep connection to Seerah.
- Beautiful architecture of the new masjid.
- Great views of Madinah from the hill.
Cons:
- Can be crowded with tour buses.
- Parking can be tight during peak season.
