"If you want to capture the true spirit of Asia and Africa, some day you must visit Mecca, the origin of the human spirit."

King Hussein of Jordan in an interview in June, 1967

Makkah, Saudi Arabia is the holy city towards which over one fifth of the world's population prays daily. It is the centerpiece of Islam and a thriving commercial center which entertains more then 2 million pilgrims during a week long period called the Hajj. No other city in the world carries such a burden or an honor. This page explores the city and many of the logistical problems relating to the Hajj.