Where was Islam founded?

Islam was founded near Mecca in the Arabian peninsula of the Middle East. According to Islamic history, Muhammad visited Hira, a cave on Mount Jabal al-Nour, which is about 2 miles from Mecca. Inside Hira, Muhammad is said to have received divine revelation to advocate worshipping only Allah.

Muhammad declared Mecca to be Islam’s holy city. Followers of the religion are encouraged to make a pilgrimage to the city at least once in their lifetime. Within Mecca is the Ka'ba, inside the mosque Al-Masjid al-Haram. Constructed around a black stone, it is considered to be Islam's most sacred place. Muslims believe Ka'ba was built by Abraham.