Masjid Qiblatain: The Complete Guide to the Mosque of Two Qiblas

Masjid Qiblatain holds a unique place in Islamic history as the site where the direction of prayer changed from Jerusalem to Makkah, reportedly during the middle of a prayer itself. Located in northwestern Madina, it remains one of the most historically significant Ziyarat sites in the city. This guide covers its history, the story behind its name, and how to plan your visit.

Masjid Qiblatain: Quick Answer

Masjid Qiblatain, also spelled Masjid al-Qiblatain or Masjid al-Qiblatayn, is a mosque in northwestern Madina known as the “Mosque of the Two Qiblas.” It marks the location where, according to most accounts, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ received revelation changing the direction of prayer from Bayt al-Maqdis (Jerusalem) to the Kaaba in Makkah, reportedly while he ﷺ was leading a prayer already in progress.

The mosque is considered one of the oldest mosques in Islamic history and remains a significant stop for pilgrims visiting Madina.

From the Mosque of Banu Salamah to Masjid Qiblatain

Before the qibla change took place, this site was known as the Mosque of Banu Salamah, named after the tribe in whose neighborhood it stood. It was here, according to most accounts, that the qibla change occurred, and the mosque was renamed Masjid Qiblatain to reflect this event.

Want the full account of Banu Salamah and how the name changed? See our dedicated History Behind Masjid Qiblatain’s Name guide

The Day the Qibla Changed

The Qur’an addresses the change of qibla directly in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:144), instructing Muslims to turn toward the Kaaba in prayer. Most accounts describe this revelation arriving while the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was already leading a prayer, with the congregation turning mid-prayer from facing Jerusalem to facing Makkah. Specific details, including the exact date and which prayer this occurred during, vary somewhat between historical sources.

For a detailed account, including how different sources describe the exact timing, see our dedicated The Day the Qibla Changed guide

Two Mihrabs, One Story: The Mosque's Architecture

Historically, Masjid Qiblatain featured two mihrabs (prayer niches), one facing Jerusalem and one facing the Kaaba, physically reflecting the story of the qibla change. Following renovation, the mosque today has a single mihrab, facing the Kaaba, in line with the standard direction of prayer.

Want the full architectural history and how the mosque has changed over time? See our dedicated Masjid Qiblatain Architecture guide

The Spiritual Lesson of Masjid Qiblatain

Beyond its historical significance, Masjid Qiblatain is often referenced for the spiritual lesson it represents: the willingness of the early Muslim community to change direction, literally and figuratively, immediately upon receiving divine instruction, without hesitation or debate.

For a fuller reflection on this lesson and its relevance today, see our dedicated Spiritual Significance of Masjid Qiblatain guide

Planning Your Visit to Masjid Qiblatain

Located in northwestern Madina, a short drive from central hotels and Masjid an-Nabawi.
Visit early or on weekdays for a calmer experience, since crowds build up during peak Umrah season and Ramadan.
Combine your visit with nearby sites. Masjid Qiblatain pairs well with Masjid Quba and Mount Uhud as part of the same Madina Ziyarat day.
Check current visiting hours before you go, since these can vary.

For a suggested route combining Masjid Qiblatain, Masjid Quba, and Mount Uhud in one day, see our One-Day Madina Ziyarat Route guide.

Important Things to Know Before Visiting

This is an active mosque, so dress and behave respectfully, as at any place of worship.
The mosque today has one mihrab, despite its historic connection to two directions of prayer, so don't expect to see two side by side.
Expect larger crowds during Ramadan and peak Umrah season.
Confirm current visiting hours before your trip, since these can change.

Religious & Historical Context

Religious significance

The qibla change is directly addressed in the Qur’an in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:144), giving Masjid Qiblatain a well-documented religious basis tied to one of the defining early moments of Islamic practice.

Historical significance

As one of the oldest mosques in Islamic history, and the site associated with the Mosque of Banu Salamah before its renaming, Masjid Qiblatain holds a distinct place in the story of early Madina.

Visitor information

This guide focuses on practical visiting details. For precise dating of the qibla change event or related religious questions, pilgrims should refer to a qualified scholar or a trusted Islamic resource, since specific details vary between historical accounts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Masjid Qiblatain called the mosque of two qiblas?

It marks the site where, according to most accounts, the direction of prayer changed from Jerusalem to Makkah, reportedly during a prayer already in progress, giving the mosque its name.

When did the qibla change from Jerusalem to Makkah?

Historical sources give slightly varying dates and details for this event. Our dedicated guide covers what different accounts say.

What was Masjid Qiblatain called before the qibla change?

It was known as the Mosque of Banu Salamah, named after the tribe in whose neighborhood it stood.

Does Masjid Qiblatain still have two mihrabs?

No. The mosque originally had two mihrabs reflecting both prayer directions, but following renovation it now has a single mihrab facing the Kaaba.

Which Quran verse mentions the qibla change?

Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 144, addresses the change of qibla toward the Kaaba.

Is Masjid Qiblatain one of the oldest mosques in Islam?

Yes, it is widely regarded as one of the oldest mosques in Islamic history, connected to the earliest years of the Muslim community in Madina.

How far is Masjid Qiblatain from Masjid Nabawi?

It sits in northwestern Madina, a short drive from central Madina and Masjid an-Nabawi. Our Location & Directions guide has current details.

Can I combine Masjid Qiblatain with other Madina sites in one day?

Yes, it pairs well with Masjid Quba and Mount Uhud. See our One-Day Madina Ziyarat Route guide for a suggested itinerary.

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