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محطة سكة حديد الحجاز
The Hejaz Railway Station in مدینہ منورہ is the restored terminus of the Ottoman-era Hejaz Railway, which operated from 1908 to 1920 connecting Damascus to مدینہ منورہ. Built to transport حج حجاج, the railway was damaged during World War I. The station has been restored as the Hejaz Railway Museum, showcasing original locomotives, carriages, and Ottoman-era artifacts.
The Hejaz Railway was built between 1900 and 1908 under Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II, funded largely by donations from Muslims worldwide. Its primary purpose was to facilitate the حج journey, reducing the 40-day camel caravan from Damascus to just 3 days by train. The 1,320 km railway reached مدینہ منورہ in 1908. During World War I, the railway was repeatedly attacked by forces led by T.E. Lawrence and Sharif Hussein's troops. It never resumed full service after the war. The مدینہ منورہ station, with its distinctive Ottoman architecture, has been preserved and converted into a museum and cultural center.
The Hejaz Railway represents a remarkable chapter in حج history — a project funded by the global Muslim community to ease the حج journey. It symbolizes the lengths to which Muslims have gone throughout history to facilitate access to the holy cities. The museum preserves this heritage for future generations.
The Hejaz Railway Museum is located in central مدینہ منورہ, within walking distance of the western approaches to مسجد نبوی. The restored station building features Ottoman architectural details including arched windows and stone facades. Inside, exhibits include original steam locomotives, passenger carriages, photographs, maps, and artifacts from the railway's operational period. Visiting hours may vary; check locally. The museum is air-conditioned and suitable for all ages. Photography is generally permitted. The surrounding area has been developed as a cultural district.