The Mecca

Mecca is an Islamic holy city in Saudi Arabia. Its full name is Makka al-Mukarramah and contains what is thought to be the holiest site of Islam, the Masjid al-Haram. During the week of Hajj a pilgrimage is made by Muslims of adequate physical and economical stability to Mecca, all are expected to make the journey at least one in their lifetime. During this time no one of differing religious beliefs is granted entrance into the city. This pilgrimage began in 628 with Muhammad and a few followers showing that a peaceful and traditional ritual could be incorporated into the new Islamic religion. The city itself is home to 1,294,167 people (2004 census) and lacks both an airport and rail service. Mecca has never been the capital of the Islamic empire and was governed for centuries by a group of people called the Hashemite Sheriffs of Mecca, descendants of Muhammad. Mecca's main purpose is to serve as a cite of devotion and worship.
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