The dimensions of the Kaaba are of great importance in understanding the structural features of the Kaaba, one of the holiest places in Islam. The Kaaba, which is the direction of prayer for Muslims and visited by millions of people every year for the Hajj and Umrah, is remarkable not only from a spiritual perspective but also from an architectural and historical perspective. Having information about the dimensions of the Kaaba, the changes in the structure and the restorations is necessary to understand both Islamic history and the restorations of the Ottoman period. So, what are the dimensions of the Kaaba and how have these dimensions changed throughout history?
In this article, we will examine the dimensions of the Kaaba in detail and discuss the changes made throughout history. The dimensions of the Kaaba have changed many times throughout history, and these changes have reflected the architectural understanding of each period. How have the dimensions of the Kaaba evolved from the early days of Islam to the present day? The dimensions of the Kaaba will help us better understand the historical and architectural importance of this sacred structure.
History of the Kaaba and Its Early Construction
The first construction of the Kaaba, according to Islamic belief, was carried out by Hz. Ibrahim and his son Hz. Ismail. After this first construction, the Kaaba was rebuilt many times. In each construction and restoration, some changes were made to the size of the Kaaba. The Kaaba, which was an important center of worship in the Arabian Peninsula in the pre-Islamic period, was tried to be preserved with its current dimensions during the time of Hz. Muhammad.
Dimensions and Architectural Features of the Kaaba
The dimensions of the Kaaba require a detailed examination of each element in the structure. The Kaaba is a rectangular structure close to a square, and the length and height of each side have certain measurements.
Basic Dimensions
- Northeastern Wall (the wall where the Black Stone is located): Approximately 11.03 meters
- Northwest Wall: Approximately 12.04 meters
- Southeast Wall: Approximately 10.22 meters
- Southwest Wall: Approximately 13.10 meters
- Height: The height of the Kaaba is approximately 13.10 meters.
These measurements determine the outer boundaries of the Kaaba and reveal the basic architectural features of the structure. However, the dimensions of the Kaaba are not limited to the outer walls only. The elements and structural details in the interior are also important.
Black Stone
Located in the southeast corner of the Kaaba, the Black Stone is approximately 1.5 meters high. This stone is one of the holiest spots in the Kaaba and is kissed or saluted by Muslims during Tawaf.
Golden Groove
The golden gutter on the roof of the Kaaba is used to drain rainwater from the structure. This gutter is located on the northwest wall of the Kaaba and is approximately 1.5 meters long.
Interior
The interior of the Kaaba is quite plain, with Quranic verses written on the interior walls. The height and width of the interior are compatible with the dimensions of the exterior walls, and the simple design of the structure gives spiritual peace to visitors.
The Size of the Kaaba and Restorations in the Ottoman Period
During the Ottoman Empire, the dimensions and structural features of the Kaaba were preserved with great care. The Ottoman sultans attached great importance to the repair and maintenance of the Kaaba and took various precautions to prevent any damage to this sacred structure. The restorations carried out during the Ottoman period also affected the dimensions of the Kaaba and caused some changes to be made to the structure.
Restorations of the Period of Suleiman the Magnificent
During the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent, a comprehensive restoration was carried out in the Kaaba. During this restoration, the outer walls of the Kaaba were strengthened and some arrangements were made in the interior. Suleiman the Magnificent attached great importance to preserving the dimensions of the Kaaba and ensured that all changes in the structure were made carefully.
Restorations of the Period of Selim II
During the reign of Selim II, the golden gutter on the roof of the Kaaba was renewed and the water drainage system of the structure was rearranged. The works carried out during this period did not make any significant changes in the dimensions of the Kaaba but increased the durability of the structure.
Restorations of the Period of Murad III
During the restorations carried out during the reign of Murad III, some changes were made to the interior of the Kaaba. The verses on the interior walls were renewed and the aesthetic appearance of the interior was increased. During these restorations, great care was taken to preserve the dimensions of the Kaaba.
The Size of the Kaaba and Changes Made in the Modern Period
Today, the dimensions of the Kaaba are preserved using modern techniques and any changes to the structure are made carefully. Restorations made in the modern period both preserve the historical texture of the Kaaba and increase the durability of the structure.
20th Century Restorations
In the 20th century, extensive restoration work was carried out on the Kaaba. During this work, the outer walls of the Kaaba were strengthened and some arrangements were made in the interior. These works, which were carried out using modern materials and techniques, ensured that the Kaaba’s size was preserved and the durability of the structure was increased.
21st Century Restorations
In the 21st century, the restoration work carried out on the Kaaba aims to preserve both the aesthetic and functional features of the structure. The work carried out during this period aims to preserve the current state of the structure without making any changes to the dimensions of the Kaaba.
The size of the Kaaba is of great importance in understanding the history and architectural features of this structure, which is one of the holiest places in Islam. The dimensions of the Kaaba have changed many times throughout history and have reflected the architectural understanding of each period. Ottoman-era restorations played a major role in preserving the dimensions of the Kaaba and increasing the durability of the structure. Work carried out in the modern period both preserves the historical texture of the Kaaba and increases the durability of the structure. The size of the Kaaba helps us better understand the historical and architectural importance of this sacred structure. The dimensions of the Kaaba are an important source of information for a closer understanding of Islamic history and the evolutions of this sacred place. The dimensions of the Kaaba further reinforce the historical and religious importance of the structure. The dimensions of the Kaaba are necessary to understand the spiritual value and architectural features of this sacred place.