Kiswah

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The Kiswah is the embroidered cloth that covers the Kaaba in Mecca, making it one of the most significant symbols of Islamic art. Made from silk and adorned with gold and silver threads, it showcases intricate craftsmanship, considered the pinnacle of Islamic artistry.

Key Facts:

• Annual Replacement: The Kiswah is replaced every year during a special ceremony on the first day of Muharram. The old Kiswah is preserved and may be distributed to museums or given as gifts.
• Historical Context: The tradition of covering the Kaaba dates back to before Islam, with the first full covering done by a Yemeni king. The current black brocade design has been in place since the Abbasid era.
• Manufacturing Process: The Kiswah is created over nearly a year by over 100 skilled artisans, weighing over 1,000 kg and consisting of four sides and a door curtain.

The Kiswah will be displayed at the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 at the King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, marking the first time the complete Kiswah will be exhibited outside Mecca.