Makkah’s sanctuary pigeons preserve centuries-old legacy in holy city
- The pigeons symbolize the serenity and heritage of Islam's holiest city, linking its historical past with present daily life
- Historical chronicles document the pigeons' importance, including prohibitions against hunting or disturbing them within the sanctuary.
- Early historian Abu Al-Walid Al-Azraqi recorded rulings that protect wildlife in sacred areas, while Muhammad Al-Fakihi highlighted their role in local customs and social identity.
- Travel accounts, such as Muhammad Al-Batnuni's narrative from 1911, describe how the birds populated the Grand Mosque, showcasing a tradition of care by worshippers.
- Regular sanitation efforts by the Holy Makkah Municipality help maintain public hygiene in areas frequented by pigeons, balancing their presence with visitor comfort.
