RIYADH: The Eastern Mosque in Al-Yamamah village, Al-Kharj governorate, is a remarkable testament to the enduring Najdi architectural style.
According to historical sources, the mosque was constructed between 1641 and 1689, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The mosque’s architectural style was crafted to suit the prevailing climatic conditions of the region.
A basement was constructed to ensure warmth for worshippers and students during winter, and a cool place from the harsh summer heat.
The mosque’s roof, built using tamarisk wood, is flat and features a solid, level layer to create a surface that aligns with the mihrab (prayer niche) on the ground floor.
Abdulaziz bin Ibrahim Al-Saees, an expert on local history, said a room for ablution was constructed adjacent to the mosque, and a well was dug in its northwestern part to provide water for the mosque and the local community.
The mosque’s basement features openings that allow natural light and air to filter in during the day, and hangers for lamps to provide illumination at night.
The courtyard separates the basement area from the upper part of the mosque, and accommodates 40-60 worshippers.
The old mosque was last used in 2011 as it needs restoration. The locals have kept it in its original state, placing barriers around it for protection.
The mosque was constructed using materials sourced from the local environment. It was last restored approximately 70 years ago.
