Iraq Travel Guide

Baghdad

Baghdad, once a leading center of the Islamic Golden Age, is a city with a rich history. Though it has faced challenges in recent years, its historical significance is undeniable. The city was founded in the 8th century and became a hub of learning and culture, home to the famous House of Wisdom. While the modern city is much changed, Baghdad remains a symbol of the rich cultural and intellectual history of the region. 

The Ruins of Babylon

The ancient city of Babylon, a name that resonates through history, was the heart of one of the most influential empires of the ancient world. The ruins of Babylon, near the modern city of Hillah, include remnants of the famed Hanging Gardens, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the Ishtar Gate. Though much of the ancient city has been lost to time, the site remains a testament to the grandeur of ancient Mesopotamian civilization.

The Marshes of Southern Iraq

The Marshes of Southern Iraq, also known as the Mesopotamian Marshes, are a unique wetland ecosystem in the Tigris-Euphrates river system. These marshes are home to the Ma’dan, or Marsh Arabs, who have lived in harmony with this environment for millennia. The area, a mix of waterways, reed beds, and small islands, supports a variety of wildlife and is a significant site for biodiversity.

Erbil Citadel

Erbil Citadel, located in the heart of the Kurdish region of Iraq, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world. This ancient citadel sits atop a tell, or occupied mound, and is surrounded by a bustling modern city. The site reflects the layers of history that have shaped the region over the millennia, from ancient Assyrian times to the present.

Ctesiphon

Ctesiphon, an ancient city on the banks of the Tigris River, is home to the Taq Kasra, also known as the Archway of Ctesiphon. This monumental archway is a remnant of the ancient Persian capital and is an architectural marvel of its time. The site speaks to the historical significance of the area as a center of power in ancient Persia.

The Ziggurat of Ur

The Ziggurat of Ur, near Nasiriyah, is an ancient Mesopotamian temple complex built in the early Bronze Age. This massive step pyramid is a significant example of Sumerian architecture and offers insight into the religious practices of one of the world’s earliest civilizations. The site, though partially reconstructed, evokes the grandeur of ancient Sumer.

Hatra

Hatra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an ancient fortified city that was once the capital of the first Arab Kingdom. This well-preserved city is known for its unique blend of Hellenistic and Roman architecture with Eastern decorative features. The site is a symbol of the cultural diversity and resilience of the ancient civilizations that thrived in the region.

Samarra

Samarra, another UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its iconic Great Mosque and its unique spiral minaret, the Malwiya Tower. The city was the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate in the 9th century and represents a significant period in Islamic history. The architectural innovations found in Samarra had a lasting influence on the Islamic world.

The Kurdish Mountains

The Kurdish Mountains in northern Iraq, including the Zagros range, offer some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country. This region is characterized by rugged terrain, scenic valleys, and a relatively cooler climate. It is an area rich in natural beauty and cultural diversity.

Al-Kadhimiyah Mosque

The Al-Kadhimiyah Mosque in Baghdad is one of the most important Shia Islamic sites. It is a stunning example of Islamic architecture and is visited by millions of pilgrims each year. The mosque is notable for its two golden domes and four minarets, and it houses the tombs of the seventh and ninth Shia Imams.