The Shiite holy city of Karbala has several religious shrines, the most famous of which is the burial place of Hussein, the Muslim martyr and grandson of Muhammad. The tomb, which has minarets and a gilded dome, is surrounded by a large courtyard. There is also the tomb of Abbas, Hussein's half brother.
The shrines were heavily damaged after the Gulf War, but have since been repaired. Do not take a camera anywhere near the sacred precincts. Non-Muslims are not allowed inside the shrines and mosques but may visit the surrounding courtyards. About 31 mi/50 km southwest is the Ukhaidir Castle. Karbala is located 65 mi/105 km southwest of Baghdad.
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