Makkah was characterized by interconnected alleyways and clustered houses nearly 50 years ago, according to resident Adam Mohammed Hawsawi. He noted that the city was less densely populated during that period.
SPA reported that Hawsawi, who is 74 years old, recalled a spiritual atmosphere of unity and camaraderie. He stated that the Ramadan cannon and radio broadcasts served as the primary methods for announcing the start of the month.
Traditional lighting decorations known as atariks and lanterns were used to adorn mosques for prayer. Because residential areas lacked electricity, children played traditional games such as Madwan and Kabt around these atariks. Essential supplies were sourced from markets near the Grand Mosque, specifically Mada’ah and Qashashiyah.
Hawsawi observed that while technology has advanced and the city has grown, the spirit of community and spiritual reflection remains unchanged.
How was the start of Ramadan announced in Makkah in the past? According to Adam Mohammed Hawsawi, the start of the month was announced primarily through radio broadcasts and the Ramadan cannon. These methods were used nearly 50 years ago when the city of Makkah was less densely populated than it is today.
What traditional decorations and activities characterized old Makkah during Ramadan? Residents used lanterns and traditional lighting decorations called atariks to adorn mosques for prayer. Due to the absence of electricity in residential areas, children played traditional games like Madwan and Kabt around these atariks.
Which markets provided essential supplies in Makkah according to the resident? Essential supplies were provided by the Mada’ah and Qashashiyah markets. Both of these markets were located near the Grand Mosque in Makkah.