An Ottoman-era portico in Mecca’s Grand Mosque has become the latest battleground in a conflict between those who want to preserve the city’s architectural heritage and Saudi authorities pushing for redevelopment. The 17th century portico – one of the oldest parts of the Grand Mosque, Islam’s holiest – is being removed by Mecca authorities as part of an expansion project to create more space for soaring numbers of pilgrims.

Read More: Mecca Redevelopment

Related Story: Heritage, Pilgrimage and the War on History