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| Arabia |
| Most holy relics being demolished |
| 2013-03-18 |
| [Bangla Daily Star] The authorities in Saudi Arabia have begun dismantling some of the oldest sections of Islam's most important mosque as part of a highly controversial multi-billion pound expansion. Photographs obtained by The Independent reveal how workers with drills and mechanical diggers have started demolishing some Ottoman and Abbasid sections on the eastern side of the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. The building, which is also known as the Grand Mosque, is the holiest site in Islam because it contains the Kaaba -- the point to which all Muslims face when praying. The columns are the last remaining sections of the mosque which date back more than a few hundred years and form the inner perimeter on the outskirts of the white marble floor surrounding the Kaaba. The new photos, taken over the last few weeks, have caused alarm among archaeologists and come as Prince Charles -- a long-term supporter of preserving architectural heritage -- flew into Saudi Arabia yesterday for a visit with the Duchess of Cornwall. The timing of his tour has been criticised by human rights campaigners after the Saudis shot seven men in public earlier this week despite major concerns about their trial and the fact that some of the men were juveniles at the time of their alleged crimes. Many of the Ottoman and Abbasid columns in Makkah were inscribed with intricate Arabic calligraphy marking the names of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)'s companions and key moments in his life. One column which is believed to have been ripped down is supposed to mark the spot where Muslims believe Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) began his heavenly journey on a winged horse, which took him to Jerusalem and heaven in a single night. To accommodate the ever increasing number of pilgrims heading to the twin holy cities of Makkah and Madina each year the Saudi authorities have embarked upon a massive expansion project. |
| Posted by:Fred |
| #3 To accommodate the ever increasing number of pilgrims heading to the twin holy cities of Makkah and Madina each year the Saudi authorities have embarked upon a massive expansion project. One massive, glassy, parking lot? |
| Posted by: Pappy 2013-03-18 13:05 |
| #2 Interesting relics of a death cult. I wouldn't call them holy. |
| Posted by: Ebbang Uluque6305 2013-03-18 12:05 |
| #1 The "architectural heritage" of pagan cultures and religions; the ghosts of Balmoral Castle, yes, I see the obvious linkages. |
| Posted by: Besoeker 2013-03-18 04:45 |