The Zamzam Well reportedly has its origins in ancient times when Abraham abandoned his wife Hagar and their son Ismail in the desert. Hagar frantically searched the desert for a source of water for Ismail, who was dying of thirst, praying the entire time to God to send her help. Accounts differ, but a desert spring eventually appeared at her feet and she was able to save her son. The Zamzam Well's significance has not decreased over time. It was the original cause for settlement in the Makkah region since it was the only water source available for miles. The climate of the area is inhospitable and any permanent water source was, and is, a reason for settlement. Eventually, in the twentieth century, the Saudi Arabian government erected a water pipeline connecting Makkah to a massive desalination plant in Shuaybah on the Red Sea replacing the relatively limited aqueducts formerly servicing the area. This eased the traditional strain on the Zamzam well and enabled the city to grow beyond its traditional limitations due to the scarcity of water. It is still a major part of the rituals in the Hajj, though. After the original circumbation of arrival during the Hajj, pilgrims drink water from the Zamzam Well. Due to the incredible amounts of pilgrims, the water is distributed away from the well to ease movement during the Hajj, as seen to the left. The well is now located in the lower level of the Holy Mosque.