Riyadh’s Eastern Mosque: A Jewel of Najdi Architecture
In the quaint village of Al-Yamamah, nestled in the Al-Kharj governorate, stands the Eastern Mosque – a stunning example of the enduring Najdi architectural style.
Historical records indicate that this magnificent mosque was built between 1641 and 1689, showcasing the rich heritage of the region, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.
Designed to combat the extreme climatic conditions of the area, the mosque features a unique architectural style that prioritizes the comfort of worshippers and students.
A cleverly constructed basement provides warmth during the winter months and a cool refuge from the scorching summer sun.
The roof of the mosque, made from tamarisk wood, boasts a flat, level surface that perfectly aligns with the mihrab on the ground floor.
Local history expert, Abdulaziz bin Ibrahim Al-Saees, revealed that a room for ablution was built adjacent to the mosque, along with a well in the northwestern corner to supply water to the mosque and the community.
The basement of the mosque features strategically placed openings to allow natural light and air to filter in, while hangers for lamps provide illumination after dark.
The courtyard, serving as a divider between the basement and upper levels, can accommodate up to 60 worshippers at a time.
Although the old mosque saw its last worshippers in 2011 and is in need of restoration, the locals have taken measures to preserve its original charm by placing protective barriers around it.
Constructed from materials sourced from the local environment, the mosque underwent its last restoration around 70 years ago, showcasing the enduring legacy of Najdi architecture.