Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — A newly opened exhibition in Jeddah offers a rare glimpse into the historical evolution of the two holy cities — Makkah and Madinah — through a compelling collection of artwork and photography spanning five centuries.

Located in Jeddah Park, the exhibition is divided into three main galleries: Before the Invention of the Camera (1550–1880), The Early Photographers of Makkah and Madinah (1880–1920), and The Golden Age of Photography (1920–present).

Visitors can explore early depictions of the holy cities through artistic illustrations created by both Muslim and non-Muslim artists, long before the invention of photography in 1839.

These artworks — etched onto copper and other metals — were later printed and distributed across Europe, often after artistic reinterpretation and enhancements by professional illustrators.

The exhibition highlights the transition from interpretative art to photographic realism, with some of the earliest photos of Makkah dating back to 1297 AH (1880 CE).

Unlike hand-drawn works, these images served as visual records, preserving customs, architecture, and urban life at specific moments in history.

Through these exhibits, the show builds a powerful visual memory of the evolving identity of the two holiest cities in Islam.