What's happened
Three Spanish Muslims completed an 8,000 km pilgrimage to Mecca, arriving in May 2025. Their journey, the first of its kind since 1491, involved traversing multiple countries and overcoming numerous challenges, including lost horses and logistical hurdles. The trio's adventure has garnered significant attention on social media, highlighting human connections along the way.
What's behind the headline?
Significance of the Journey
- Cultural Revival: This pilgrimage revives a nearly forgotten tradition, showcasing the enduring nature of faith and cultural practices.
- Human Connection: The trio's journey emphasizes the kindness of strangers, illustrating a sense of community and support among Muslims worldwide.
- Social Media Impact: Their adventure has attracted over 345,000 followers on Instagram, demonstrating the power of social media in sharing personal stories and fostering connections.
Challenges Faced
- Logistical Hurdles: The group faced numerous challenges, including losing their horses in Bosnia and navigating treacherous terrains.
- Community Support: They received assistance from various sources, including mosques and equestrian centers, highlighting the importance of community in overcoming obstacles.
Future Implications
- Inspiration for Others: Their journey may inspire future pilgrims to explore alternative routes and methods of travel for religious purposes.
- Cultural Exchange: The pilgrimage fosters cultural exchange and understanding among different nations and communities.
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, the trio's journey was a test of faith and endurance, with Abdelkader Harkassi Aidi stating, "We thought we would lose that horse" during a tense moment in Bosnia. The South China Morning Post highlighted the emotional significance of reaching Mecca, noting that no pilgrim had traveled this way since 1491. AP News emphasized the human element of their journey, with Harkassi stating, "People have been incredible," reflecting the support they received along the way. The Independent echoed these sentiments, showcasing the blend of adventure and spirituality that characterized their pilgrimage.
How we got here
The journey began in October 2024 when Abdelkader Harkassi Aidi, Tarek Rodriguez, and Abdallah Rafael Hernandez Mancha set out from southern Spain. Their goal was to revive an ancient tradition of performing the Hajj on horseback, a dream that started 35 years ago with Hernandez's conversion to Islam.
Go deeper
- What challenges did the pilgrims face during their journey?
- How did social media play a role in their pilgrimage?
- What inspired them to undertake this journey?
Common question
-
What Challenges Did Pilgrims Face on Their Historic Hajj Journey?
The recent pilgrimage to Mecca by three Spanish Muslims on horseback has captured global attention. This historic journey, the first of its kind since 1491, was filled with challenges and triumphs. As we explore the obstacles they faced, we also delve into the significance of this event in the Muslim community and how it has been perceived through social media.
-
What Challenges Did Pilgrims Face on Their Historic Hajj Journey?
The recent pilgrimage of three Spanish Muslims on horseback to Mecca has captured global attention. Their journey, the first of its kind since 1491, was filled with challenges and triumphs that reflect both historical practices and modern spirituality. Below, we explore the various aspects of this remarkable journey.
More on these topics
-
Saudi Arabia, officially the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is a country in Western Asia constituting the bulk of the Arabian Peninsula.
-
Spain, officially the Kingdom of Spain, is a country in Southwestern Europe with some pockets of territory across the Strait of Gibraltar and the Atlantic Ocean. Its continental European territory is situated on the Iberian Peninsula.
-
The Kaaba, also spelled Ka'bah or Kabah, sometimes referred to as al-Kaʿbah al-Musharrafah, is a building at the center of Islam's most important mosque, the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It is the most sacred site in Islam.