Exploring the Secrets and History of Masjid Nabawi’s Green Dome

Where faith meets hidden history

The Masjid al-Nabawi in Madinah is one of the holiest sites for Muslims worldwide, holding a deep history and great importance. This significant site features unique architecture with a beautiful green dome, but few people know its secrets, history, and key facts. The story of how this once simple burial site of Prophet Muhammad PBUH became a grand monument that attracts millions of devotees is filled with the efforts of many people and spiritual meaning. So, without wasting any time, let's break down the important facts and secrets of the Masjid e Nabawi Green Dome!

The Green Dome is built over the grave of the Prophet Muhammad and was constructed in the 13th century (1279 CE). The dome was not always green and was not made of concrete; it was first made up of simple wood and then was repaired and painted twice with white and blue from the 15th century to 1817. The dome finally got its green color in 1837, during the reign of Sultan Mahmud II, and remains unchanged to date.

Over the years, Green Dome Madinah has been surrounded by numerous rumors and myths, some proven false and others still a mystery. Here are the top 2 mysteries and rumors associated with the Green Dome.

1. The most intriguing is the story of a man buried inside the dome — yes, you heard that right. According to the rumor, a man who climbed the dome intending to destroy it was struck by lightning and died instantly. His body supposedly remained inside the green dome because no one could remove it. It was said that a small grave was built on top of the dome to secure his body. People claim it was a miracle from 90 years ago to warn others that those with similar intentions will not fare well.

However, the truth is different. There is no corpse buried there; instead, it’s just a window that resembles a grave. During a severe drought in Madinah, historical reports state that Caliph Umar ibn Abdul Aziz ordered a small opening to be made above the Prophet’s grave so that nothing would stand between it and the sky. Following this symbolic act, it is said that Madinah experienced heavy rainfall.

2. The second myth is quite common, and many of us might have believed it until now. It claims that green is the official color of Islam, and that’s why the Dome is green. While Muslims do associate green with paradise and blessing, the Green Dome itself wasn’t painted green until 1837 — before that, it had natural, white, and blue shades.

Although the Prophet's Mosque is one of the most popular sites in the world, especially for Muslims, there are still some known and unknown facts the public is not aware of. Here we have gathered some interesting pieces of information and facts that further explain why Masjid e Nabawi is important.

1. The public cannot easily view the Prophet Muhammad's grave within the Green Dome since it is surrounded by black curtains and gold mesh. The grave itself is two cubits, 100 cm high, and is kept simple in its original form.

2. Historically, the care and protection of the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) grave and the chambers inside the Green Dome were entrusted to a special group of custodians, many of whom were eunuchs. These individuals were chosen for their dedication, discipline, and perceived spiritual purity, leading lives of piety and seclusion to maintain the sanctity of this sacred place. In recent times, changes in Saudi policies have led to the phasing out of this tradition, and it is believed that only a small number of these custodians remain in Madinah today.

3. After multiple plots to steal the Prophet’s body during the Crusades, a lead-filled trench was constructed around the grave in the 12th century to prevent such attempts.

4. The Prophet’s Mosque has undergone renovation more than 100 times following its first construction, which was a simple and modest structure made up of clay.

5. It was one of the first buildings in the Arab world to get electricity access in 1909.

Wrapping up, the Green Dome of Masjid e Nabawi is a place of profound tranquility and spirituality, standing as a time capsule to centuries of rich history and events. This sacred structure not only graces the skyline of Medina but also serves as the final resting place of the beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). As our readers delve deeper into the significance of this sacred site, we trust that it has cleared the shadows of misconceptions and doubts, allowing for a better understanding of its important legacy.

Looking to stay near Masjid al-Nabawi during your visit? Book your stay from our carefully curated list below!

• Mira Ajyad(0.40 km away)
• Makkah Hotel(0.47 km away)
• فيلا في آي بي إطلالة على الحرم - فندق وأبراج مكة(0.48 km away)
• Makkah Clock Royal Tower A Fairmont Hotel(0.49 km away)
• Dar Al Tawhid Intercontinental Makkah(0.49 km away)
• Al Safwa Hotel Tower 1 -فندق الصفوة البرج الأول(0.50 km away)