Mecca (Arabic: مكة المكرمة) is the holiest site of Islam. This city is the birthplace of Prophet Muhammed, the founder of Islam, and Muslims believe the Qu'ran was first revealed to Muhammad here. Visiting Mecca for the Hajj is an obligation for all Muslims around the world. The Great Mosque of Mecca, known as Masjid al-Haram is considered to be Islam's most sacred mosque and the direction of prayer for Muslims.