By Taj Mahal Taj Mahal-Official Website of Taj Mahal, Government of Uttar Pradesh (India) Agra, an old heritage city on the bank of the river Yamuna, finds mention in the Epic Mahabharata as Agravan. Ptolemy, the famous 2nd Century Geographer, marked it as Agra on the World map. It is generally accepted that Sultan Sikandra Lodi, the Ruler of Delhi…
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Persian Festivals and Traditions
Published by Sogand Safari, Orient Trips, Orienttrips.com Iran’s colorful calendar overflows with joyous festivals and celebrations that hold a cherished place at the heart of Persian culture. The festive calendar intertwines ancient Persian rituals, Islamic holidays, and joyful national events. These diverse festivities reflect how Iran’s identity has been shaped over centuries by different influences. By exploring some major Iranian…
Read MoreA Short Islamic History of Mecca
Mecca (also spelled Makkah) is the holiest city in Islam and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. Located in modern-day Saudi Arabia, it is the spiritual heart of Islam and the direction Muslims face when they pray, known as the Qibla. Mecca Before Islam Long before Islam, Mecca was a major religious and trade center in the Arabian Peninsula. At…
Read MoreThe First Mosque in Islam: Quba Mosque
The first mosque in Islam is the Quba Mosque, located in what is now the city of Medina, Saudi Arabia. When and Why Was It Built? In the year 622 CE, when the Prophet Muhammad migrated from Mecca to Medina—a journey known as the Hijra—he stopped in a small village just outside of Medina called Quba. During his short stay…
Read MoreKhadijah: The First Wife of Muhammad
Khadijah bint Khuwaylid was a wealthy and respected businesswoman in Mecca. She was known for her intelligence, independence, and integrity. She hired Muhammad to manage some of her trade caravans and was so impressed by his honesty and character that she proposed marriage to him. At the time of their marriage, Khadijah was about 40 years old and Muhammad was…
Read MoreThe Early History of Islam: A Beginner’s Guide
Islam is one of the world’s major religions, followed by over a billion people around the globe. Its beginnings can be traced back to the 7th century in a region of the world known today as the Middle East. If you’re unfamiliar with Islam, this article offers a clear and simple overview of how it all started. Where Did Islam…
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