View source for Mecca

{{QualityScore|Lead=2|Structure=3|Content=3|Language=4|References=3}}
'''Mecca''', also known as ''Makkah al-Mukarramah'' (مكة المكرمة, lit. "the Blessed Mecca"), is a city located in the Hijaz region of the Arabian Peninsula and is described by Islamic scriptures as the birthplace of [[Muhammad]] (b. 570), the founder of [[Islam]]. Mecca is host to the [[Kaaba]], the holiest Islamic mosque (and central pagan shrine prior to Muhammad's conquest of Mecca), and thus the site of the annual Islamic pilgrimage called the [[Hajj]] which physically and financially able Muslims are required to attend at least once in their lifetimes (one of the [[Five Pillars of Islam|Five Pillars]] of Islam). Practicing Muslims face Mecca as they [[Salah|pray]] towards the Kaaba (their ''qibla'', or direction of prayer) five times a day (another one of the Five Pillars of Islam).

It is said that upon his conquest of Mecca, the prophet Muhammad received revelation that prohibited [[non-Muslims]] (which the revelation describes as ''najas'', or "filthy") from entering the city. This law remains in effect until today.