Islam was founded by Muhammad, a 6th century merchant from the city of Mecca, in modern-day Saudi Arabia. Mecca was then a well-established trading city. The Kaaba, in Mecca, is the focus of pilgrimage and prayer for muslims around the world.
videos + essays
We're adding new content all the time!
Stories of the modern pilgrimage
Watch and listen as several British Muslims recount their journeys to Mecca.
Islamic pilgrimages and sacred spaces
Hajj is the most well-known pilgrimage in Islam. Here Dr Sophia Arjana discusses its role in the religion, whilst also looking at Shi‘a and regional pilgrimages, sainthood and sacred space in Islam.
The Qur’an
Dr. Mustafa Shah describes the historical context of the Qur’an—its revelation, its transmission and codification and its shared spiritual heritage with the other Abrahamic faiths.
The Kaaba
Located in Mecca, this square shrine is the holiest site in Islam. Muslims direct their prayers toward it.
Hajj
The sacred pilgrimage to Mecca—birthplace of Prophet Muhammad—involves a series of rituals and lasts several days.
The Five Pillars of Islam
In their religious practice, Muslims follow five fundamental tenets—learn about them here.
Introduction to Islam
One of the world’s main monotheistic faiths, Islam was founded by Muhammad, a merchant from Mecca.
