The Seven Mosques (Saba’a Masajid) & The Site of the Trench
A Battlefield of Faith at the Site of the Trench
The site known as Saba’a Masajid, or The Seven Mosques, is one of the most important historical landmarks in Madinah. This is not just a collection of mosques, but the very ground where Islam’s fate was defended during the famous Battle of the Trench (Ghazwa al-Khandaq).
These small, individual mosques were initially built to mark the locations where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his senior companions stood guard, prayed, and commanded the defense of the city during a long and desperate siege.
Understanding the Modern Site
To manage visitor expectations, it is crucial to know that the historical site has undergone significant development. The area of the original small mosques has now been consolidated into a single, large, and beautiful mosque complex.
- Preserved History: The name “Saba’a Masajid” is still used to refer to the entire historical area. The new complex honors the history of all the original prayer posts.
- One Main Mosque: Today, you will find one grand mosque on the site, often called Masjid Al-Khandaq, built around the historically most significant location, Masjid Al-Fath.
The Spiritual Significance:
The Battle of the Trench (Ghazwa al-Khandaq)
The siege lasted nearly a month, testing the faith, patience, and endurance of the believers to the limit. The small mosques served as command posts for the defenders along the trench line. The most prominent of these were:
Masjid Al-Fath (The Mosque of Victory)
This was the command post of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It was here, on the slopes of Mount Sela, that he spent three continuous days in fervent supplication. Allah (SWT) answered his prayers, sending a piercingly cold wind and an army of angels that threw the enemy camp into disarray, forcing them to retreat and granting the Muslims a decisive victory without a significant battle.
Mosques of the Companions
Other mosques marked the posts of key companions like Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (RA), Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA), Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA), and Salman al-Farsi (RA).
Visiting this site is a lesson in Tawakkul (reliance on Allah), strategic brilliance, and the power of sincere Dua.
Exploring the Site: The Experience
Masjid Al-KhandaqThe main activity for a visitor today is to enter the large, modern mosque. It is a beautiful place for prayer and reflection.
Visualize the BattlefieldStand in the plaza outside the mosque. Behind you is Mount Sela, which served as a natural fortification. In front of you is the open area where the trench was dug. Imagine the hardship and ultimate triumph of the early Muslims.
Offer PrayerPray two Rakat of Nafl prayer inside the mosque, contemplating the incredible history of the ground you are standing on and the divine intervention that secured the future of Islam.
Gallery: The Seven Mosques & The Battle of the Trench
Practical Information and Logistics
Travel Time from Masjid an-NabawiThe site is located on the northwestern side of Madinah, approximately a 15-minute drive from the Prophet’s Mosque.
Best Time to VisitIt is easily accessible and is a standard part of most Ziyarat tours, which are often conducted in the morning or late afternoon.
EtiquetteTreat the location with reverence. The experience is about connecting with the history of the battle and the unwavering faith of the Prophet (PBUH) and his companions.
Pilgrims Reflect on Their Visit to the Site of the Trench
Standing where the Prophet (SAW) prayed for victory gave me goosebumps. You can almost feel the strength of the believers who stood firm here.
Ahmed Khan – Pakistan
The story of the trench is one of pure faith and strategy. Visiting Masjid Al-Khandaq helped me understand the Prophet’s wisdom in a whole new way.
Maryam Al-Suwaidi – UAE
An unforgettable stop in my Madinah Ziyarat. Seeing Mount Sela and learning about the companions’ struggle brought tears to my eyes.
Bilal Hassan – South Africa
Visiting with Umrah.cab
Our experienced drivers bring the battle story to life, pointing out key features such as Mount Sela and the trench-digging area. Your visit can also be seamlessly combined with other sacred sites such as Masjid Quba, Masjid al-Qiblatain, and the Martyrs’ Graveyard at Uhud for a complete and comfortable Ziyarat experience.
