Iraq is a country full of amazing and exciting historical sites, stunning landscapes and incredible culture. The country is teeming with popular tourist attractions, from the grand city of Bagdad to the ancient ruins of Babylon. While there are many exciting experiences to be had, here are some of Iraq’s most popular tourist attractions.
Babylon: One of the world’s first great cities, Babylon is an archaeological site that is as fascinating as it is inspiring. It was built thousands of years ago and served as a powerful political and cultural center in the region. Today, the ancient ruins still have much to offer in the form of art, architecture and history. Visitors can explore the surviving temples, palaces, citadels and palaces, marvelous works of art and monuments from the old kingdom.
Tigris and Euphrates: The two major rivers of Iraq, the Tigris and Euphrates, are perfect for exploring by boat. Not only do they offer beautiful scenery, but the two rivers are an important part of Iraq’s history, hosting important cities like Ur and Uruk. Travellers can relax on a boat as they glide along the rivers and watch the landscape and towns roll by.
Hillah: The city of Hillah is known for its monuments and religious sites. Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient mosques, shrines and a 16th century palace. The city is also the home to the Mausoleum of Imam Musa al-Kazim, a popular destination for religious pilgrims.
Shi’ite Shrine of Askariya: This is one of the holiest sites in Iraq, home to the tomb of the 12th Shi’ite imam Ali al-Hadi. The shrine is a popular place of worship, a beautiful example of Iraqi architecture and an important history lesson. Visitors can also check out the wall paintings and carvings of the shrine and the museum in the nearby city of Samarra.
Erbil Citadel: Erbil is one of the oldest cities in the world and the erbil citadel is the centerpiece of the city. It is the largest citadel in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The citadel offers a great viewpoint to observe the city and offers many shops and cafes.
Basra Corniche: Basra is the second largest city after Baghdad and its corniche is stunning. It is a long walkway along the banks of the Euphrates River with amazing views, street vendors and activities. This is also the site of the holiest shrine in Shi’ite Islam, which houses the tombs of Imams Ali and Mohammad.
A trip to Iraq is sure to be an amazing and eye-opening experience. Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins, visiting a holy site or simply taking in the stunning views, the country certainly has a lot to offer. From grand cities to ancient landmarks, Iraq promises to be an unforgettable trip.
At the start of any global exploration, few can think of Iraq as a dominant tourist destination. Despite this, the Middle East nation of Iraq has a wealth of attractions starting from religious and historical landmarks to adventure opportunities and stunning sightseeing.
From Mesopotamia, the land between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, to Babylon, the cradle of civilization and Ur to the hanging gardens of the ancient civilization, Iraq was one of the foremost cradle for civilization and history. The Iraqi city of Mosul is home to the Great Mosque, also known as Al-Nuri Mosque. It was founded in 1172 by Nur Al-Din Zangi and became a World Heritage Site in 1986. The Great Mosque is notable for its stunning architecture and is one of the most revered religious sites in the Muslim world.
Another historical site that yearns a visit is the Tomb of Prophet Daniel in the city of Al Kūfah. This tomb is dedicated to the prophet Daniel, and it is a complex that includes four other mosques, two mausoleums, two minarets, and two reservoirs. This complex is considered as a holy site by many and tourists can witness various prayer rituals held by locals.
For adventure lovers, Iraq provides an array of activities. Visitors can choose to go on a hiking adventure and explore Iraq’s Zagros mountain range, or take a Jeep safari to explore the surreal desert of Erbil. The traditional markets of Iraq are perfectly suited for shopping thieves. various crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs can be found in the streets of old cities. Visitors can also try special food items like kubes, falafel, dolma, and kebabs that are famous in Iraq.
From tourist attractions of grandeur, breathtaking sights, and an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Iraq can be a destination for everyone. While it is still considered dangerous by many, a visit to Iraq can open up an entirely new world of mystery and engage visitors in an array of cultural pursuits.