Valley of Akik

The Valley of Akik is a large valley extending to the west and southwest of Medina, known throughout history for its lush gardens and fertile lands. With a length of approximately 80 km and a wide base, it constitutes one of the most important natural elements of Medina. The Prophet Muhammad said about the Valley of Akik: "Akik is a blessed valley." According to a narration, it was said to the Prophet Muhammad in a dream or while awake, "You are in a blessed valley, you are in Akik." This good news has reinforced the special position of the valley in Islamic tradition. Umar ibn al-Khattab allowed the companions to acquire land in the Valley of Akik; in this context, important companions and successors such as Zubair ibn al-Awwam and Urwah ibn Zubair owned property here. Over time, the valley became one of the most distinguished land areas of Medina. The route of the Hejaz Railway during the Ottoman period (1900-1908) passed through the Valley of Akik; a historical bridge was built connecting both sides of the valley. This railway bridge was one of the most striking examples of Ottoman engineering in the Hejaz. Although the valley has partially transformed into residential and commercial areas today, it continues to be one of the symbolic places of Medina due to its historical and geographical significance. [Source: "Akik", TDV Islamic Encyclopedia, https://islamansiklopedisi.org.tr/akik; "Hejaz Railway", TDV Islamic Encyclopedia, https://islamansiklopedisi.org.tr/hicaz-demiryolu]