Almost a year has passed since a journey etched itself into the collective memory of me and my colleagues—a journey that led us through the storied ruins of Babylon and, more profoundly, to the sacred city of Karbala. Recently, as we sat reminiscing about that experience, a quiet urgency stirred within me: the need to share the story of our time in Karbala, a place where history and spirituality converge in powerful harmony.

The Road to Reverence

It was a crisp Friday morning in Baghdad when our small group set out, the anticipation palpable in the air. Our destination was Karbala, a name that carries immense historical and spiritual weight, beckoning us to uncover its stories. The road unfurled before us like a grey ribbon, faithfully tracing the course of the mighty Euphrates River.

For over ninety minutes, the journey itself became a spectacle. The Iraqi landscape—often imagined in stark, arid tones—revealed a subtle and captivating beauty. Each bend in the road offered a new vista, a different shade of ochre and green under the clear morning sky. The land whispered its own quiet poetry, hinting at centuries of life and legacy.

Karbala: A City of Sacred Echoes

Roughly 100 kilometres southwest of Baghdad lies Karbala, a city revered by Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Hussain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. Yet its significance transcends religious boundaries. Karbala is a confluence of cultural heritage, its roots stretching deep into the annals of antiquity.

The etymology of Karbala is equally intriguing. Scholars suggest Assyrian roots—interpreting it as “God’s sanctuary”—while others point to Persian origins, signifying “work” and “higher,” or Arabic, meaning “soft earth,” a nod to the fertile plains that have nurtured life here for centuries.

The Battle That Shaped a Legacy

Karbala’s name is most indelibly etched in history due to the pivotal Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. This confrontation pitted the forces of Yazid I, the second Umayyad caliph, against a small but resolute band led by Imam Hussain. On the very sands where the city now stands, Hussain and his companions met their martyrdom.

This event, a cornerstone of Shia tradition, symbolises sacrifice, resilience, and the pursuit of justice. Every year, during Muharram and Ashura, millions return to Karbala to honour this history.

Entering the Sacred Realm

As we drew closer to Karbala, the skyline began to shift. Gleaming domes pierced the horizon, their golden surfaces catching the sunlight and radiating a sense of grandeur. After navigating the necessary security checks, we stepped into a different world—a realm saturated with spirituality.

The shrine of Imam Hussain left a lasting impression. Intricate mosaics shimmered in the light, calligraphy danced across walls, and a profound sense of peace enveloped the space.

Intricately adorned walls, shimmering mosaics that danced in the light, and a profound sense of peace enveloped us as we moved through its hallowed spaces. Here, amidst this splendor, we paid our respects to the revered Imam, whose legacy of courage and conviction continues to inspire across generations.

Nearby, the mausoleum of Abbas Alamdar, Hussain’s half-brother, stood as a tribute to unwavering loyalty and bravery.

A Place of Pilgrimage & Reflection

The very ground beneath our feet bore witness to centuries-old sacrifice—the site where Hussain, his 72 companions, and family members, including his infant son, fell. Pilgrims pressed hands against the silver casing of the Imam’s tomb, whispered prayers, and shed tears—a powerful display of shared devotion.

Across the courtyard, Abbas ibn Ali’s mausoleum stood equally commanding, a testament to courage and fidelity.

Beyond religious boundaries, Karbala resonates with universal themes: courage, compassion, and the human struggle for justice. Pilgrimages draw tens of millions annually, making the city a beacon of faith and reflection.

Life Beyond the Shrines

After offering our own quiet moments of reflection and soaking in the atmosphere of profound devotion, we ventured into the vibrant streets of Karbala. Here, the rhythm of daily life pulsed alongside the echoes of the past.

We shared a delicious and hearty meal in a bustling marketplace, the air filled with the aroma of spices and the lively chatter of locals. Over food and conversation, we exchanged stories and insights, experiencing firsthand the warm and generous hospitality of the Iraqi people.

A Journey That Transcends Time

Leaving Karbala, I carried a renewed sense of gratitude. This journey was more than a historical tour—it was a personal encounter with a city of profound significance.

Karbala threads together past and present, faith and heritage, reminding us of the enduring strength of the human spirit. For pilgrims and travellers alike, it offers a space of solace, reflection, and hope—a luminous testament to resilience, devotion, and shared humanity.