Burial Places of Founders of World Religions - Islam

Islam

Muhammad is buried in the Al-Masjid al-Nabawi ("Mosque of the Prophet") in the city of Medina in Saudi Arabia. It should be noted that while non-Muslims regard Muhammad as the founder of Islam, Muslims see him as the final prophet of a pre-existing religion.

Muhammad's grave lies within the confines of what used to be his wife Aisha's and his house. During his lifetime it adjoined the mosque, which was expanded during the reign of Caliph al-Walid I to include his tomb. Muhammad is buried next to the first two caliphs, Abu Bakr and Umar. Umar was gifted a spot next to Muhammad by his wife Aisha, which she had intended for herself.

Muhammad's grave itself cannot be seen as the area is cordoned off by a gold mesh and black curtains. As per Islamic tradition, the grave itself is not embellished or decorated and is two cubits high. The grave is marked by an austere green dome above it, built by the Ottoman Turks. This dome has become universally emblematic of both the Muhammad himself, as well as the city of Medina.

Muhammad's grave is an important reason for the particularly high sanctity of the mosque. Millions of visitors come to visit it every year because it is traditional to visit the mosque when going on the pilgrimage to Mecca.