06/07/2025
Rare images taken inside the Ka’bah during an in depth structural survey in May-June 1996 (Muharram 1417 H).
Thorough technical and architectural research was conducted inside the Holy Ka’bah to evaluate the interior status of the building. The external surface does not usually reflect the internal reality. It was assumed best to check for hidden damage and decay, by insects and mould, to the building and marble stones. Under the nine memorial marble plaques, carrying the dates of the various renovations, hidden damage and decay were found.
On examining the joints, it was evident that the humidity, fungi and white ants had affected the cracked portions. It was doubtful, however, that these might have penetrated into the interior walls of the Holy Ka’bah.
From the interior of the Holy Ka’bah, random samples were collected and it was found that white ants and fungi had destroyed many materials on the floor and in the walls. The wooden pillars, which were covered by a mixture of mud, sand and lime were also being invaded by insects and mould. Humidity had eroded and decayed the deep, interior sections of the wall, as well as the surfaces. It was necessary to find better and stronger wall substitutes. in order to ensure against and prevent any further damage to the interior.
📸 Corrosion on the base of the pillars of the Ka’bah, in the wooden cross beams, in the walls and in the ceilings