Mecca
Introduction
Mecca, officially known as Makkah al-Mukarramah, is a city in the Hejazi region of Saudi Arabia. It is the holiest city in Islam, and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. Every year, millions of Muslims from around the world participate in the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
History
Mecca's history dates back to the era of Abraham, who is believed to have built the Kaaba with his son Ishmael. The city was a major trading hub in the Arabian Peninsula, attracting merchants and pilgrims from all over the region. The Prophet Muhammad was born in Mecca in the 6th century CE, and it was here that he received his first revelation from Allah.
Geography
Mecca is located in the Sirat Mountains of western Saudi Arabia, approximately 70 km inland from the Red Sea. The city is situated in a narrow valley, surrounded by rocky hills. The climate in Mecca is hot desert, with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in the summer.
Economy
The economy of Mecca is heavily reliant on the annual Hajj pilgrimage and the millions of Muslims who visit the city throughout the year for the Umrah pilgrimage. The city has seen significant development in recent years, with the construction of large hotels, shopping malls, and infrastructure to accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims.
Culture
Mecca is a city steeped in Islamic culture and tradition. The city's culture is heavily influenced by the millions of pilgrims who visit each year, bringing with them their own customs and traditions from around the world. The city is home to the Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in the world, and the Kaaba, the most sacred site in Islam.