Since 680 A.D.
Jan. 29, 2007 - Istanbul, Turkey - Shia Muslims gather in the Halkali section of Istanbul for the annual Ashura event. Ashura commemorates the death of the Prophet MuhammedÕs grandson Hussein ibn Ali, who was massacred in 680 A.D. with his followers in Karbala (modern-day Iraq). Shias consider Hussein the successor to Muhammed and his martyrdom is a distinguishing mark of Shia faith.
Picture © David Honl/ZUMA