Masjid al-Qiblatain

Located roughly five kilometers northwest of the Prophet's Mosque on Khalid ibn al-Walid Road, Masjid al-Qiblatayn—the Mosque of the Two Directions—holds an important place in Islamic history. Built in 623 CE by Sawad ibn Ghanam ibn Ka'ab, this ancient site is where Prophet Muhammad received the divine instruction to change the direction of prayer from Jerusalem to Mecca. Rebuilt in 1987 with a modern architectural style, the mosque combines rich history with striking visual elements.

As you visit, you will appreciate its rigid symmetry, highlighted by twin minarets and twin domes. Inside the main prayer hall, sunlight filters through clerestory windows around the main southern dome, illuminating the mihrab that points toward Mecca. You will also see a secondary false dome linked by a cross-vault, beneath which a small marker mihrab—a replica of the one in Jerusalem's Dome of the Rock—commemorates the mosque's historic original orientation.

Set to accommodate up to 3,000 worshippers after recent expansion efforts, the complex features raised entry courtyards and accessible sub-basement ablution areas. Whether you are exploring Medina's earliest Islamic landmarks or reflecting on its unique architectural heritage, a walk through this open, historic structure offers a deeply meaningful experience.

What to see at Masjid al-Qiblatain

• Historic site where prayer direction shifted from Jerusalem to Mecca in 623 CE
• Modern architectural design featuring striking twin domes and twin minarets
• Marker mihrab under a false dome commemorating the original Jerusalem orientation
• Main prayer hall illuminated by clerestory light above the Mecca-facing mihrab
• Sub-basement ablutions area and raised entry courtyard reached by stairs and ramps

Visiting tips

Take advantage of the mosque's 24-hour continuous opening to schedule a quiet visit outside peak prayer hours.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Anytime (Open 24 hours)

How to get there & what’s nearby

Masjid al-Qiblatain is easy to reach on Medina’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Quba Mosque. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Medina travel guide.