Kerbala

Kerbala, also spelled Karbala, is a city in central Iraq, located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) southwest of Baghdad. It is considered one of the holiest cities for Shia Muslims, second only to Najaf. The city's significance stems from the Battle of Karbala, which took place in 680 CE.

The Battle of Karbala was a pivotal event in early Islamic history. It involved the forces of the second Umayyad caliph, Yazid I, and a small group of companions and family members led by Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Husayn and his followers were travelling to Kufa to support a rebellion against Yazid. They were intercepted at Karbala and, after a series of skirmishes, were decisively defeated. Husayn and most of his male companions were killed, a tragedy that deeply impacted the development of Shia Islam.

Today, Kerbala is a major pilgrimage site. Millions of Shia Muslims visit annually, particularly during the annual commemoration of Ashura, which marks the day of Husayn's martyrdom. The city is home to the Shrine of Imam Husayn, a magnificent mosque and mausoleum built over the graves of Husayn and his companions. The surrounding area also contains other significant religious sites, including the Shrine of Abbas ibn Ali, Husayn's half-brother. The city's economy relies heavily on religious tourism and associated services.