Travelling with your kids is one of the most rewarding ways to teach them about the world, especially when the destinations are rich in history and culture. For Muslim families, visiting Islamic landmarks allows us to connect with our heritage. It turns our history from abstract lessons into memorable experiences.
From the peaceful Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina to the breathtaking architecture of the Alhambra in Spain, these sites provide a blend of education and inspiration. Imagine your children walking through the streets of Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. These experiences also instil a sense of pride in their Muslim identity.
In this blog, I’ll guide you through some of the most significant sites worldwide that are perfect for family visits.
The Significance of Islamic Landmarks
If you’ve grown up in the West like us, you know that we’re not learning our history at school but at home. And to add to this, the Muslim community is being painted negatively by the media which doesn’t help nurture a sense of pride, nevertheless, a sense of belonging.
Islamic sites hold deep significance as living symbols of our faith, culture, and identity. They are more than destinations; they are places that are witnesses of our predecessor’s achievements.
When we visit these sites with our children, we’re not just showing them beautiful architecture or historical artefacts; we’re connecting them with their heritage. Each landmark represents an important part of our history.
These adventures help solidify our children’s identity, connecting them to the lessons they learned at home. By seeing, touching, and experiencing these places firsthand, children can better understand Islam’s legacy and the Muslims’ contributions to the world.
Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina, Saudi Arabia
Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina, Saudi Arabia, is one of the most revered sites in Islam and holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims. As the mosque of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), it is a place of worship as well as a centre of Islamic history and faith. Visiting this mosque with your children is an enriching experience, connecting them to the roots of their faith.
The mosque was originally built by the Prophet Muhammad himself, and it has been expanded and beautified over the centuries. As you walk through its peaceful grounds, you can feel the weight of its history.
For children, this visit can be very impactful. They can see where the Prophet lived, prayed, and taught, imagining the stories they’ve heard. Many families find it meaningful to visit the Rawdah. The area between the Prophet’s pulpit and his tomb is considered a garden from the Gardens of Paradise. This is a place where children can understand the deep connection with the Prophet.
Autumn and Winter are probably the best time to visit as summer is very hot. The busiest time of the week would be Jumuah (Friday prayer). You should make your way early to the mosque to find a place to pray without being pushed. Although, there are many staffs to guide you.
Apart from the mosque, there are now museums near it as well as sites in other parts of the city. Uhud is always a favourite as the kids can climb Mount Uhud, which is more of a hill now.
The Alhambra in Granada, Spain
The Alhambra is a shining example of Moorish art and architecture. It offers a glimpse into the splendour of Andalusian civilisation in Europe. And visiting the Alhambra with your children is like stepping into a 1001-night tale.
It was originally built as a fortress and later transformed into a magnificent palace by the Nasrid dynasty, the last Muslim rulers in Spain. Its designs and carvings are intricate, and the stunning gardens reflect the height of Muslim craftsmanship.
For children and adults alike, the Alhambra is a magical place. You can wander through the lush Generalife gardens, with the flowing fountains and vibrant flowers, or marvel at the ornate ceilings and walls adorned with Arabic calligraphy and geometric patterns.
The Alhambra also offers educational experiences. Guided tours are available to learn about its history and significance. You can focus on teaching your kids about the science behind Alhambra’s water systems which is a testimony of Islam’s contribution to science.
Visiting the Alhambra is more than just a tour; it’s a journey into the heart of Islamic history in Europe. It allows children to appreciate the cultural heritage of Muslims in a unique and beautiful setting outside the Muslim world.
As it is a very popular site, I advise you to book your tickets as soon as you’ve finalised your dates. It’s not unusual for it to be fully booked weeks in advance. Come prepared with comfortable shoes too as it took us 6 hours to see everything.
Unveiling Islamic History in Bursa, Turkey
Bursa, Turkey, is a city steeped in Ottoman history. Visiting this city with your children offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the roots of this great empire and to understand the early days of Ottoman rule. As you walk through the city, you can explore sites that tell the story of its rise to power.
Your first stop could be the “Panorama Museum” which has an informative art gallery focused on all the early Ottoman rulers. On the top floor, you will find a 360-degree panorama that depicts Bursa the day it was conquered. As you make your way down the escalator, you will find an exhibition of the series Ertugrul’s costumes.
A key site in Bursa is the Mausoleum of Osman Gazi, the founder of the Ottoman Empire. If the children have been watching the Turkish show of its name, they’ll be in for a treat. The local police are dressed as Alps and guarding the tomb, with a change of guards every hour up to 5 pm.
Bursa is also famous for its beautiful natural surroundings. A short drive from Bursa is the village of Cumalikizik. It is over 600 years old, a Unesco Heritage site, and you can stroll through the old Ottoman streets. The inhabitants also offer breakfast at their houses and are very proud to show around to tourists.
To complete the experience, you can hire a family room at the 600-year-old “Eskteli Kaplıca Armutlu Hamam” to experience the Turkish bath. The rooms are equipped with a changing room, a small thermal pool and a washroom. Toiletries and robes are provided. And you can opt to add treatments like a scrub and a massage.
Exploring Bursa with your children gives them a deeper understanding of the Ottoman Empire and culture. It’s a chance to walk through history. There are many other sites to visit which you can find on this blog here.
Making the Most of Your Travel
Making the most of your travel to Islamic landmarks with your children requires a bit of preparation and planning. These trips are more than just holidays.
Start by preparing your children before the trip. Introduce them to the history and significance of the places you’ll visit. You can do this through books, documentaries, or interactive apps. Children will be more likely to engage and appreciate the experience fully.
During your visit, encourage your children to observe and ask questions. For example, when visiting a mosque, explain the architectural features, such as the mihrab and minaret, and their functions in Islam.
Respect and etiquette are also crucial when visiting religious sites. Teach your children the importance of behaving respectfully, such as dressing modestly, being quiet in prayer areas, and following local customs. This shows respect and understanding for the place.
One way to make the trip more memorable is by encouraging your children to keep a travel journal. They can draw pictures, write about their experiences, and note down interesting facts they learn along the way.
Visiting Islamic landmarks with your children is more than just a journey; You connect with your faith and heritage. These experiences bring history to life, enrich your children’s understanding of Islam, and create lasting family memories. By exploring these significant sites, you help them develop a stronger sense of identity and pride in their heritage. So, plan your trip, embrace the adventure, and watch your children’s curiosity and love for their faith grow with each step you take together.
There are two other places on my bucket list which would fit in this blog, the Al Aqsa mosque in Al Quds, Jerusalem and the Cairo Citadel in Egypt.
