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Karbala

Karbala is a governate located in Iraq, southwest of Baghdad, and it is one of the holy cities in Iraq. Its history goes back centuries. The literal meaning of the name is 'the land which will cause many agonies', and 'afflictions'. According to Shia belief, the Archangel Gabriel narrated the meaning of the name to Prophet Muhammad (s).

It is a holy city for Shia Muslims, as it is the place where the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS) (the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad) took place during the Battle of Karbala in the year 680 CE. The site of the battle is commemorated by the Imam Hussein (AS) Shrine, an important religious and pilgrimage site for Shias.

The Battle of Karbala was a significant event in the history of Shia Islam, as it marked the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS), his family and his companions, at the hands of the forces of the Umayyad Caliphate. This event was a pivotal moment in the formation of Shia identity, and the commemoration of the event on the anniversary of the battle is an important part of Shia religious practice.

The Imam Hussein (AS) Shrine in Karbala is a complex of buildings and structures that was built in the 15th century, and has been expanded and restored several times over the centuries. The shrine complex includes the tomb of Imam Hussein (AS) and a number of other important figures in Shia history. The site is an important place of pilgrimage, particularly during the month of Muharram, when many devout Shia come to visit and to participate in religious ceremonies and rituals.

Another important figure in Islam's history is Imam Abbas (AS), who is Imam Hussein (AS) half brother, and they both died in the same battle. They are buried next to each other in Karbala. His grave being inside a complex and artfully decorated. Just like Imam Hussein (AS) shrine, Imam Abbas (AS) shrine is also a destination for pilgrimage, especially during Muharram.

The city of Karbala is also known as a center of learning for Shia Islam. The city is home to several significant religious institutions, including Hussein ibn Ali (AS) University, which is a leading center for the study of Shia Islam and the training of religious scholars. The shrine's seminary is a major center for the training of religious scholars and experts in Shia theology and law. The site has been of great significance to the Twelver Shia community, and it's revered and visited by believers every year on particular days.

Besides the Imam Hussein Shrine, there are several other noteworthy sites and attractions in Karbala. The city is steeped in cultural heritage, with a number of traditional restaurants and the famous sweet pastry shops. In terms of architecture, the city features numerous buildings and monuments in the traditional Mesopotamian architectural style. The central street is lined with palm trees and colorful shops.

Karbala's long history makes it a destination steeped in a variety of cultural influences, including Arab, Turkish and Iranian. The city has a variety of festivals, including the annual Arba’een pilgrimage, which is the largest religious gathering, and the annual mourning ceremony during the month of Muharram, in addition to the Battle of Karbala in a military exhibition. In general, Karbala is a unique and historic city, that plays an important role in the development of Islamic history.