Iraq Places to Visit

Nestled in the heart of the Middle East, Iraq is a country with an unparalleled historical legacy, bearing the cradle of civilization within its borders. Known as Mesopotamia in ancient times, Iraq is a land where the world’s first cities and empires rose, and where writing was conceived.

The capital city of Baghdad, once the seat of the Abbasid Caliphate, played a pivotal role in the Islamic Golden Age. Today, it is a bustling metropolis melding the ancient with the modern. Visitors can explore the National Museum of Iraq, which houses artifacts from the Sumerian, Akkadian, Babylonian, Assyrian, and Islamic civilizations, providing an invaluable insight into the country's rich history.

To the south of Baghdad lies the ancient city of Babylon, with its legendary Hanging Gardens, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although much of the original splendor has been lost to time, the site still offers a haunting glimpse into the past with its ruins and the reconstructed Ishtar Gate.

The city of Karbala holds immense religious significance for Shia Muslims as the site of the martyrdom of Hussein ibn Ali, a grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. Millions of pilgrims visit the city annually, especially during the Arba'een, an event marked by one of the largest peaceful gatherings in the world.

In the north, the autonomous Kurdistan Region offers a stark contrast with its mountainous terrain and relative peace. The cities of Erbil and Sulaymaniyah serve as cultural and economic hubs. Erbil's ancient Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, sits at the heart of the city and is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited places on Earth.

Iraq's natural landscapes also tell a story of diversity, from the marshes of the Tigris-Euphrates river system, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the Marsh Arabs with their unique way of life, to the rugged mountains of Kurdistan that offer opportunities for hiking and outdoor adventure.

Iraqi cuisine reflects the country's rich cultural tapestry, with dishes such as masgouf, a traditional grilled fish dish considered Iraq's national dish, and dolma, a family of stuffed vegetable dishes. These culinary delights are often accompanied by flatbreads like khubz, a staple in Iraqi dining.

Despite the challenges faced by Iraq due to historical conflicts and political instability, the country's heritage and the resilience of its people stand as a testament to its enduring spirit. Iraq continues to rebuild and preserve its ancient sites, inviting the world to witness the treasures of its storied past.