Muslim artists created beautiful works, such as pottery, glass work, metalwork, jewellery, and textiles. All were kinds of art, which were greatly developed, in the Islamic culture. The strongest form of Islamic expression is considered to be found in its architecture. From the famous mosques to the palaces and tombs of the Mogul governors of India, Islamic architecture is among the finest in the world.
The well-known of these works, Masjid al-Haram, is one the most beautiful buildings in the world. The Great Mosque at Mecca (as it is usually called) is in the city of Makkah in the western part of Saudi Arabia. In the Islamic faith, it is the holiest place and a site of pilgrimage for all Muslims. Masjid al-Haram is the most important monument of Islam. Built primary by Prophet Abraham, this plain cubicle structure has gone through some renovations and expansion, although still keeping its original style. This is the very structure that Muslims from all over the world face during ritual graces. It is a site where Muslims assemble for the pilgrimage of Haj. Among its other advantages, it symbolizes the oneness of Muslims, the austerity of Islam as well as the dynamism of this belief (Great Mosque - Mecca - Saudi Arabia). The Ka’ba (Masjid al-Haram) was also the motherland of Imam Ali. It was a monument greatly venerated by all from the time base was laid. Masjid al-Haram is a building of brick with a broad courtyard with the well-known “Black Stone” at the center.
This stone, known as the Hajar el Aswad, is considered to be a meteorite remnant though it is thought that Abraham and his son Ishmael put it there during the foundation of the Kaaba in ancient times (Richard Ettinghausen and Oleg Grabar, 1987). Contrary to popular opinion, the stone is not worshipped. Instead, it is just kissed or felt by pilgrims in honour of Muhammad. The whole compound is exquisitely decorated with black silk and gold lettering. Surrounding the entire Mosque are high walls rising up to 50 feet. When not in Mecca, all Muslims must be at their devotions in the direction of the stone. If you are not a follower of Islam, it is doubtful that you will ever get to visit this place in person. Nevertheless, it is one of the major landmarks of the world that holds the ultimate significance to those who follow the Islamic faith.