Discover Iraq's Historic and Natural Wonders

Venture to Al-Ukhaidir Fortress, located near Karbala. Built in the late 8th century AD, this imposing structure showcases early Islamic architecture combined with Mesopotamian influences. The fortress, covering an area of over 150,000 square feet, offers robust construction and elaborate design that provide a glimpse into the strategic importance and artistic sensibilities of the era. It’s a must-see for those who appreciate architecture that has stood the test of time.

The Al-Kadhimiya Mosque is a major Shiite shrine located in Baghdad's Kadhimiya area. This mosque honours the seventh and ninth Shiite Imams, Musa al-Kadhim and Muhammad al-Jawad, respectively. The mosque, known for its two gold-covered minarets and huge dome, is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. It is a popular pilgrimage destination, drawing large crowds during religious festivals such as Muharram and Arbaeen. The mosque reflects not only spiritual significance, but also architectural and cultural magnificence.

Visit Al-Qurnah, famously claimed to be the site of the biblical Garden of Eden. Situated at the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, Al-Qurnah is enveloped by lush date palms that add to its paradisiacal allure. A monument marks the spot which is steeped in both natural beauty and mythological significance, offering visitors a peaceful retreat and a moment to ponder the crossroads of history and legend, in a setting that spans several acres.

The Ziggurat of Ur, near Nasiriyah, is one of the most well-preserved monuments of the Sumerian civilization. Originally built in the 21st century BC, this massive stepped platform was dedicated to the moon god Nanna. The ziggurat itself covers an area of over 100,000 square feet and rises to a height of approximately 70 feet. Visitors today can marvel at the scale of this religious site, which serves as a stark reminder of the grandeur of ancient Mesopotamia. Climbing the steps of the Ziggurat, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient worshippers who once gathered here in vast numbers.

Finish your adventure in the Mesopotamian Marshes, a watery landscape of reed beds and rivers that stretches throughout southern Iraq for thousands of square miles. These marshes are not just important habitat for wildlife, but also home to the Ma'dan, or Marsh Arabs, who have lived in harmony with their surroundings for millennia. Discover a unique way of living in floating reed huts and explore the waterways by traditional canoe. This natural wonder provides a peaceful respite from the rush and bustle of contemporary life, allowing visitors to explore a living ecosystem rich in species and culture.

Take a trip to Erbil Citadel, a monumental fortified mound in Kurdistan that towers over the cityscape. Standing over 100 feet tall, this citadel is a testament to over 7,000 years of layered history, where each generation built anew atop the relics of the old. Today, this 10-hectare site not only hosts residential houses but also the revered Mulla Afandi Mosque. It’s a real-deal historical layer cake!

Once the world's largest mosque, the Great Mosque of Samarra is now a majestic ruin. Its most striking feature, the Malwiya Minaret, resembles a snail shell and soars at 180 feet. Constructed in the mid-9th century, this mosque stretched over 42 acres at its peak. Despite suffering damage in recent conflicts, the Malwiya still stands tall, a resilient symbol of Samarra's past glory.

Journey to Lalish Temple, the spiritual heart of the Yazidi faith nestled in the age-old village of Lalish. Legends say the site dates back to the Sumerians and other early Mesopotamian civilizations. The temple is distinguished by its conical roof and is believed to house the tomb of Sheik Adi ibn Musafir, the Yazidi's most venerated saint. Today, the village remains uninhabited except for the Emir, with houses left unlocked for pilgrims seeking rest from their spiritual journey.

Explore the echoes of the once-glorious city of Babylon. Now in ruins, this site was the epicentre of ancient Mesopotamian dynasties and has suffered greatly from both historical plunder and modern conflicts. Efforts to reconstruct parts of Babylon during Saddam Hussein's regime ceased with his fall. However, the United Nations is now spearheading efforts to unearth and restore significant portions of this ancient metropolis, recently opening up the areas around Hussein's palace to visitors.

Discover Iraq's vibrant marshland communities, which contrast sharply with the stereotypical images of vast deserts. Home to the Madan culture, these communities are known for their distinctive Mudhif houses—elongated, arched structures made from reeds and adobe. These communal homes, maintained by the local population of about 500,000, epitomize a communal living tradition that has thrived in Iraq for over 5,000 years.