Traditional Architecture in Makkah al-Mukarramah Province refers to an ancient architectural style unique to the buildings of Makkah al-Mukarramah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This style is distinguished by its form, construction methods, materials used, and decorative techniques, predominantly characterized by an Islamic aesthetic. It developed in response to the environmental and social conditions of the population, aligning with the living requirements and lifestyle of the province in the past.
Diversity of architectural styles in Makkah al-Mukarramah Province
The ancient architectural construction methods serve as evidence of the culture of past civilizations, providing insights into the environmental conditions and the civilizational and social values that humans once faced. Makkah al-Mukarramah has historically been a cultural crossroads influenced by its openness to the outside world. Additionally, its strategic geographical location between the Levant and Yemen made it a vital connecting hub. This position impacted the architectural methods accumulated over years of experience and knowledge, resulting in diverse architectural styles evident in Makkah al-Mukarramah Province through construction tools, building techniques, and designs.
Traditional architectural styles in Hejazi construction
The details of Hejazi houses are characterized by consistent Arabic features that celebrate sunlight. This is particularly evident in the architectural design of windows, known as Rawasheen, which are connected to the concept of the Mashrabiya. These Rawasheen are crafted in various shapes and sizes, with their number and distribution along the building's exterior—either throughout the façade or limited to the uppermost floors—reflecting the owner's wealth. The geometric patterns carved into the wood further signify the homeowner's affluence. The Rawasheen serve multiple purposes, acting as a source of light, a ventilation system for internal air circulation, and a privacy screen for the household residents.
A special type of stone, known as Shamisi stone (al-Qahoot), was used in construction. This stone is red with a yellowish hue and is distinguished by its ease of use, as it absorbs moisture and prevents heat from entering interiors. Later, black clay was utilized instead of cement in the construction of Hejazi palaces and houses. Additionally, Kashour stone, or Manqabi stone, a coral limestone, was employed. Both types of stone were extracted from the shores and rocky platforms of the Red Sea.
These houses featured a design and construction approach that allowed them to be dismantled and reassembled either horizontally or vertically. This was due to the use of Takleelah wood, which served a role similar to modern beams in construction. The Takleelah wood was placed horizontally within each wall, with a height not exceeding one meter. Given the fragility of the Manqabi stone, the Takleelah wood contributed to evenly distributing the weight between the floors of the house, preventing tilting or collapse. This unique construction detail was not replicated in houses elsewhere in the world.
Interior details of traditional architecture in Makkah al-Mukarramah Province
Residents of the Hejaz referred to their homes as Hejazi house until the twentieth century, in celebration of the broader Islamic architectural arts. These homes were constructed using Shabaki stone, which prominently appeared in the designs of Hejazi houses and palaces.
The interior of the Hejazi house was divided into main sections, and no house in Makkah al-Mukarramah lacked these essential features: the Dahliz, the Majlis, the Suffah, the sleeping chamber, and the Markab.
- Dahliz: A sand-floored room located at the entrance of the house, adorned with rugs hung on the walls. It typically featured two intricately decorated wooden chairs and served as the reception area for guests. It was customary to decorate the interiors with velvet-upholstered cushions and mats, intricately carved and decorated wooden furnishings, and mosaic-adorned arches.
- Majlis: Situated after the Dahliz, this room was the largest and most elaborately furnished space in the house.
- Suffah: A room often attached to the majlis, used for living or sleeping purposes.
- Sleeping Chamber: These were upper rooms designated for family sleeping arrangements.
- Mua’khar: Named for its position at the back of the house, this room was reserved for women.
- Markab: The kitchen of the house, typically located near the Dahliz and Majlis.
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