Medina: The movable domes of the Prophet's Mosque, with their exquisite design, intricate craftsmanship, and architectural artistry, stand as a living testament to the care and attention given by the government of Saudi Arabia to the Prophet's Mosque (peace be upon him).
According to Saudi Press Agency, the domes were constructed as part of the major Saudi expansion of the Prophet's Mosque during the reign of the late King Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, whose foundation stone was laid in 1405 AH. This expansion reflects the Kingdom's commitment to serving Islam and Muslims and preserving one of the most significant Islamic sacred sites.
The Prophet's Mosque features 27 movable domes, each weighing 80 tons. These domes are opened and closed automatically through advanced control systems and undergo regular maintenance. Each dome rests on a square base with a side length of 18 meters and moves smoothly along steel rails that extend for a total length of 1,573 meters.
A blend of wood, blue turquoise, ceramic, sandy hues, and turquoise shades creates a unique architectural masterpiece, captivating visitors to the Prophet's Mosque. Sturdy cedar wood forms the wooden elements, while turquoise pieces embellish the interior. Meanwhile, ceramic tiles and geometric shadow lines define the dome's exterior.
The architectural design of the domes enhances sound transmission throughout the Prophet's Mosque and helps maintain cool air inside, ensuring a comfortable environment for worshippers and visitors.