Victory Arch, Baghdad
Facts and practical information
The Victory Arch, also known as the Swords of Qādisīyah, stands as an imposing symbol in the heart of Baghdad, Iraq. This monumental arch, consisting of a pair of colossal hands holding crossed swords, was commissioned by then-President Saddam Hussein to commemorate the Iran-Iraq War which took place from 1980 to 1988.
The arches are situated at the entrance of the Great Celebrations square, also known as the Parade Ground, where military parades used to take place. The hands holding the swords are reportedly casts from Saddam Hussein's own hands, adding a personal touch to the monument. The swords themselves are said to be made from the metal of guns and tanks used in the war, while the helmets of Iranian soldiers are scattered at the base, symbolizing the Iraqi victory.
Standing over 40 meters tall, the Victory Arch is not just a monument to war but has also become a tourist attraction in Baghdad. Visitors to the city often stop by to view the grandeur of the arches and to ponder the complex history they represent. The arch has also served as a poignant backdrop for both official events and public gatherings in the city.
الكرخ (زورا بارك)Baghdad
Victory Arch – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Baghdad Mall, Baghdad Zoo, Monument to the Unknown Soldier, Karkh.