RIYADH: The annual ceremony to replace the Kiswa of the Holy Kaaba, a tradition that has been carried out for over a century, started on Wednesday.
The Kiswa refers to the black silk embroidered cloth that covers the Holy Kaaba.
As part of a carefully coordinated process, the gilded curtain from the Kaaba door, which measures 6.35 meters in length and 3.33 meters in width, was removed first.
The new Kiswa is currently en route to the Grand Mosque, accompanied by a comprehensive system of logistical and operational support, Saudi Press Agency reported.
A Saudi team of 154 trained craftsmen is overseeing the process and their duties include raising the old Kiswa, detaching the gilded elements, and installing the new Kiswa.
