Qom is one of the oldest cities in Iran and has been inhabited since at least the 6th century BC. It is located in the province of Qom and is the second holiest city in the country after Mashhad. The city is known for its religious significance as it is home to the Fatima al-Ma'sumeh Shrine, a major pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims. It is also home to numerous seminaries and universities, making it an important center of religious learning.
The city was first mentioned in historical records in the 7th century AD as a small village. It was then known as ‘Gom’ or ‘Gum’ and was part of the larger region of Hyrcania. During the Sasanian period, it was an important administrative center and was known as ‘Gom Karka’ or ‘Gom Karka’.
In the 10th century, the city was conquered by the Seljuk Turks who gave it the name ‘Qum’. It was then ruled by the Buyid dynasty until the Mongol invasion of 1220. The city was then sacked by the Mongols and its inhabitants were forced to flee.
In the 14th century, the city was briefly under the rule of the Ilkhanids but was eventually conquered by the Timurids in 1386. Under the Timurids, the city enjoyed a period of prosperity and was known as a center of learning and culture.
In the 16th century, the city was conquered by the Safavids who made it the capital of their newly established province of Qom. The city became an important center of Shia scholarship and religious education. It was also a major center of trade and commerce.
In the 19th century, the city was briefly occupied by the Russians during the Russo-Persian War of 1804-1813. It was then annexed by the Qajar dynasty in 1817. During this period, the city continued to be an important center of religious learning and scholarship.
In the 20th century, the city was the site of a major uprising against the Pahlavi dynasty in 1978-79. It was also the birthplace of the Ayatollah Khomeini, the leader of the Iranian Revolution.
Today, Qom is a major pilgrimage center for Shia Muslims from around the world. It is also an important center of religious learning and scholarship and is home to numerous seminaries and universities. The city is also a major industrial center and is home to numerous factories and industries.
Qom is a fascinating city with a rich and varied history. It is a major pilgrimage site and a center of religious learning and scholarship. It is also a major industrial center and is home to numerous factories and industries. The city is a great place to explore and learn more about Iran’s history and culture.