Aghawat Section (The place of the custodians of the Prophet's Mosque, also known as the Sacred Chamber)

Aghawat (Aghas) is the name of the special class of officials responsible for the service of the Prophet's Mosque —and the Grand Mosque— during the Ottoman period. These individuals were appointed directly by the sultan's order; they performed extremely sensitive duties such as protecting and cleaning the Sacred Chamber and ensuring visitor order. During the Ottoman period, the aghas resided permanently in Medina; they monitored access to the Sacred Chamber; they would guard the mosque throughout the night. This profession carried a traditional status passed down from father to son. Comprehensive documents regarding the appointment of aghas, their salaries, and job descriptions exist in the Ottoman archives. According to Adnan Şensoy, the current head of this position is Sheikh Nuri. The Aghawat institution has undergone structural changes during the Saudi administration; however, part of the special service to the Sacred Chamber continues through officials who maintain this tradition. This place is a living witness to a century-old tradition of service and dedication. [Source: TDV Islamic Encyclopedia, "Prophet's Mosque" article, islamansiklopedisi.org.tr/mescid-i-nebevi; Ottoman Haremeyn foundation sources]