In pictures: Iraq pilgrimage bombing

Crowds of Shia Muslims outside the Imam Musa al-Kadhim shrine

A series of suicide bomb attacks against Shia Muslims in Baghdad has marred a major pilgrimage to a holy shrine in the city.

Iraqis transfer an injured man to hospital

Officials said at least 28 people were killed, with dozens more wounded, by three female suicide bombers.

Security forces watch female pilgrims on the way to the shrine

Women are sometimes recruited as bombers because their loose-fitting robes can easily hide explosives. Islamic culture means security forces are often reluctant to stop and search women.

An Iraqi youth is treated in hospital for injuries

Despite a drop in deadly attacks in the Iraqi capital in recent months, emergency services and ordinary civilians are well used to dealing with the aftermath of a major bombing.

Children rest next to a rug bearing the portrait of Imam Hussain

Some of the victims were youngsters, caught up in the attacks as they visited the Musa al-Kadhim shrine.

An Iraqi policeman searches a pilgrim crossing the Euphrates River on his way to the Musa al-Kadhim Shrine

Tens of thousands of Iraqi security force members are being deployed, along with US reinforcements and air support, to protect the ceremonies in Kadhimiya.

Shia Muslim pilgrims chant as they cross the Euphrates River on their way to the Musa al-Kadhim Shrine

A BBC correspondent says that major gatherings for Shia religious ceremonies have frequently been the target for bomb attacks, blamed on Sunni extremists.

Crowds of pilgrims at prayer in the Musa al-Kadhim shrine

The day had begun with thousands of pilgrims crowding into the mosque for prayers. The commemoration of the Imam al-Kadhim's death in the 8th Century will reach a climax on Tuesday.

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