What Is the Kiswah of Ka’bah?
The Kiswah of Ka’bah is the iconic black cloth that drapes the Ka’bah in Mecca. Every year, this sacred cloth is replaced with a brand-new one—woven with pure silk, embroidered with golden threads, and steeped in centuries of Islamic tradition.
How Much Gold Is Used for the Gold Kiswah?
Many people don’t realize that the gold Kiswah contains a jaw-dropping 120 kilograms of gold! In addition, over 100 kilograms of silver thread are used to create the intricate Quranic calligraphy stitched into the fabric. The process is so detailed that each letter shines in the desert sun.
How the Kaaba Cloth Is Made Each Year
The Kaaba cloth is produced by the Kiswah Factory in Mecca, where over 200 skilled artisans work year-round. The process begins with dyeing pure silk black, followed by months of careful embroidery using gold-plated silver threads. It takes nearly 10 months to complete!
Why the Kiswah Matters to Millions of Muslims
The Kiswah isn’t just a cloth—it’s a symbol of devotion and unity for Muslims worldwide. Pilgrims travel thousands of miles just to see the Ka’bah adorned in the sacred black and gold. Touching the Kiswah is often an emotional moment for many visitors.
Did You Know? Fun Facts About the Kaaba’s Kiswah
- The Kiswah costs over $5 million USD to produce.
- The cloth is changed every 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah during Hajj.
- Old Kiswah pieces are sometimes gifted to foreign dignitaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kiswah of Ka’bah made of?
The Kiswah is made of black silk, embroidered with 120kg of gold and 100kg of silver thread.
How often is the Kiswah replaced?
The Kiswah is replaced every year on the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, during Hajj.
Where is the gold Kiswah produced?
It is produced in the Kiswah Factory in Mecca by hundreds of skilled artisans.