Seven Mosques

The cluster of small mosques at the Battle of the Trench site.

The Seven Mosques (Sab’u Masajid) sit at the foot of Mount Sela, 3 km west of Masjid an-Nabawi, marking positions from the Battle of the Trench (5 AH). Despite the name, most tours today visit the site as one stop centred on Masjid al-Fath.

Seven Mosques at a glance

Seven Mosques key facts for Umrah travellers
From Masjid an-Nabawi3 km, ~10 min
SignificanceBattle of the Trench, 5 AH
Main mosqueMasjid al-Fath
Worth30–45 minutes

What to see

Masjid al-Fath

The largest of the cluster, on the spot where victory was supplicated for during the siege. The others - Salman al-Farsi, Abu Bakr, Umar, Ali and Fatimah mosques - are small historic markers a short walk apart.

The trench line

The defensive trench proposed by Salman al-Farsi ran nearby. Nothing of it survives, but the rising ground of Mount Sela gives a clear sense of the battlefield.

When to go

Included on nearly every Madinah ziyarat route, usually between Quba and Qiblatain. Coaches cluster mid-morning; early or late visits are quieter.

Questions

Why are they called the Seven Mosques?

Small mosques were built over centuries at spots where the Prophet and companions were stationed during the Battle of the Trench. Counts varied historically; six small ones remain plus the larger Masjid al-Fath.

Are the Seven Mosques part of Umrah?

No. They are optional Madinah ziyarat with historical rather than ritual significance, visited between the Umrah rites in Makkah and your stay in Madinah.

How long do you need at the Seven Mosques?

30–45 minutes covers Masjid al-Fath and a walk past the smaller mosques. Most coach tours allot about 20 minutes.