Mohammed bin Salman Project for Developing Historic Mosques Restores Al-Masqi Mosque in Aseer

Al-Masqi Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Aseer Region built between 73 and 75 AH, is part of the Mohammed bin Salman Project for Developing Historic Mosques (Phase Two), aimed at restoring its architectural features and reviving its legacy as a prayer site with over 13 and a half centuries of history.
 Located in the east of Al-Masqi village, about 32 kilometers southeast of Abha, the mosque is distinguished by its traditional Sarat design, which will be preserved during its renovation. It covers an area of 405.72 square meters and accommodates up to 156 worshippers. It was last rebuilt in 1397 AH and had been non-operational for prayer in recent years.
 The project will focus on preserving the mosque’s historical value and restoring its aesthetic elements by using natural materials from the Sarat Mountains, including local stones and wood for ceilings, columns, windows, and doors. The mosque's 12.7-meter minaret will also be developed, alongside the compact architectural pattern of its buildings and pathways typical of mountain villages.
 A notable feature of Al-Masqi Mosque (https://goo.gl/maps/W6ZXj67a1z6nTLXv9 ), among various Sarat-style designs, is the use of mudstone. In elevated regions, buildings made of stone and mud typically incorporate the "madaamik" system and thick walls with "raqaf" to protect against rain and provide shade. The Sarat style is shaped by the area's climate, geography, and social and cultural influences. The mosque is further distinguished by its unique minaret that sets it apart from others in Aseer.
 Al-Masqi Mosque is one of 30 mosques across all 13 regions of the Kingdom in the project's second phase, including six mosques in Riyadh, five in Makkah, four in Madinah, three in Aseer, two each in Eastern Region, Al-Jouf, and Jazan, and one each in Northern Borders, Tabuk, Al-Baha, Najran, Hail, and Qassim. The second phase follows the successful completion of the first, which restored 30 historic mosques across 10 regions.
 The Mohammed bin Salman Project balances traditional and modern construction standards, ensuring the sustainability of mosque components while preserving heritage and historical characteristics. Saudi companies specializing in heritage restoration are carrying out the development.
 The project's four strategic objectives include restoring historic mosques for worship, preserving their architectural authenticity, highlighting the Kingdom's cultural heritage, and enhancing their religious and cultural significance. It also aligns with Vision 2030 by preserving architectural heritage and integrating it into modern mosque designs.