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Today’s Geo Quiz takes us on a pilgrimage. We’re searching for one of Islam’s holiest cities.
Once a prosperous trading center, its fortunes rose then fell when the Ottoman Empire collapsed. This modern Saudi Arabian city now has a population approaching 2 million. But during the annual Muslim pilgrimage known as the Hajj, millions more faithful stream in.
Fortunately, the city’s home to the largest mosque in the world. It surrounds the sacred Kaaba. Wherever in the world they are, Muslims pray in the direction of this holy site at 21 degrees north 39 degrees east.
So name this holy city near the Red Sea…
The clerics at the mosque are opening their doors to tourists… in an effort to help demystify Islam. Visitors learn the basics of the religion with a guide.
Jake Warga recently went along on a tour:
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