Tourist Attractions in Baghdad, Iraq
Kadhimain Shrine
The Kadhimain Shrine was constructed in 1515 on the site of a cemetery in Baghdad. In the 8th and 9th centuries, it was there that two Imams of Baghdad were laid to rest. Imam Musa bin Ja’far and Imam Mohammad Al-Jawad were the two Imams who were descendants of Prophet Muhammad. Their names were respectively Imam Musa and Imam Mohammad. The mosque that is housed inside this shrine complex is well-known for its enormous dome that is plated in gold. In addition, the mosque has marble flooring, colourful tiles, four gold-covered minarets, and beautiful balconies. Beautiful ceramic tiles adorned with geometric designs and phrases from the Qu’ran may be seen throughout the galleries of the mosque.
Mosque and Mausoleum of Al-Imam Al-Aadham
The year 1066 marks the beginning of this renowned Islamic pilgrimage location. The tomb of Abu Hanifa, also known as Al-Nu’man bin Thabit Al-Kufi, who passed away in 767 AD and was laid to rest at the Al-Khaizuran cemetery, is the reason for the city’s notoriety. Al-Adhameya is the name that has been given to this area of the world throughout the course of many years. Around 300 years later, in the year 1066, this location saw a comprehensive renovation of the mosque that had been constructed here. The new mosque’s dome was rather impressive in size. During the subsequent 900 years, many attacks on this mosque resulted in its destruction; nevertheless, subsequent Sultans of the area rebuilt it each time it was destroyed. In its current configuration, the mosque has a massive dome made of metal plates. The rooms are exquisitely furnished, which leaves an impression on the guests.
Al-Qadereyya Shrine
Sheikh Abu Said Al-Mubarak bin Ali Al-Mukharrami was the one who first created this holy place as a religious institution at the beginning of the 12th century. It is located in the Rusafa region. He was a learned Hanbali figure and a devout religious man. Sheikh Abdul Qader Al-Jailani, a pupil of Mukharrami, extensively rebuilt it a few years after its initial construction had been completed. In 1165, the year he passed away, he was laid to rest at this location. In the year 1534 AD, his tomb as well as a mosque were built on this site. The Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent oversaw the transformation of the older building into a magnificent mosque that had a large dome. Bricks and gypsum were used in its construction. The majority of the mosque’s historic elements are still there today. You are welcome to go through the extensive collection of holy books and copies of the Quran that are kept in this library.
Caliphs Mosque
This mosque can be found on Caliphs Street, which is not far from Shorjah. This building was constructed not too long ago. On the other hand, the minaret of the mosque was built in 1289, making it around 700 years old. It was built in 908 AD as a component of the Palace Mosque, which Caliph Al-Muktafi Billah was responsible for constructing. This mosque rises to a height of about 108 feet (33 metres) and has a foundation with 12 sides. This magnificent building is a wonderful illustration of the Islamic architecture that is prevalent in this part of the world.
Armenian Orthodox Church
This church has been there since 1649 and is located in Midan Square. It is also known as the Meskenta Church. In addition to being one of the oldest structures in the city, it can be found just off of Al-Rashid Street. Armenians were the ones who first built it, but Nestorian Christians were the ones who ultimately controlled it. After a period of time, it was once again possessed by Armenians who followed the Orthodox faith. People may still be seen here today adhering to the ancient rituals in the hopes that God would give them the desires they have for the future. They fastened a chain made of iron around their necks. It is thought that a person’s request has been fulfilled if the lock on the chain can be broken without any intervention from a person. At addition, on August 15 of each year, special rituals are conducted in this location.
The Latin Church
Al-Khulafaa Street is the location of the Latin Church, also known as the Roman Catholic Church. It was built between the years 1866 and 1871, giving it the appearance of a cross, and it was built. Before the year 1731, this location was home to a little church. Carmelite Fathers resided there at that period, and it was referred to as the Monastery of St. Thomas during that time. The existing building is characterised by elaborate walls and a dome that reaches a height of 32 feet. The inside is adorned with a variety of sculptures and stunning ancient paintings. The statue of Father Ansatas Mary the Carmelite, who was a well-known scholar in the nation, may be seen in the courtyard.
Syrian Catholic Church
This Catholic Church was established in 1841 and may be found in the Ras Al-Grayyeh neighbourhood. It is situated in the middle of the Latin Church and the Chaldean Church. It is said that the Syrian Catholics built this church, making it the very first church in the country.
The inside is rather spectacular and has a lot of ornamental work. Intricate carvings adorn the main entrance door made of wood, which is also very lovely.
Iraq Museum
This museum, which can be found in the Karakh neighbourhood, is regarded as one of the most significant cultural institutions in the Middle East area. A collection of archaeological artefacts unearthed in the area is shown in around 28 different galleries throughout the museum. Exhibits that date from the early Stone Age in Mesopotamia up to the 8th century AD may be found at this location. There are artefacts on exhibit here that are around 100,000 years old. The 10,000-year-old stone that is thought to be an early calendar is one of the most well-known attractions in this area. A Sumerian seal that is 5000 years old, artefacts made of gold and marble, sculptures, artworks, inscriptions, manuscripts, and a great deal more are also among the notable items. A multilingual library with a large number of books on Mesopotamian-related topics may also be found at this location.
Baghdad Museum
Mamoun Street, next to the Shuhada (Martyrs) Bridge, is where you’ll find this museum. It is located in a convenient proximity to Al-Mustansereyya School. The exhibitions here focus mostly on Baghdad around the turn of the 20th century and provide an overview of the society that existed during that time period. There are several sculptures that are larger than life that concentrate on the rituals and ceremonies that are common to the area. There are many sculptures made of gypsum can be seen in this area. The museum is split up into several different galleries, each of which offers a different perspective on life in Baghdad. The exhibitions consist of a wide variety of paintings, photographs, sketches, and maps, among other things. The library of the museum has a significant number of books and other informational resources, and it is also open to visitors.
National Museum of Modern Art
The Kifah Street is the location of this contemporary museum. It is situated in the neighbourhood of Tayran Sabawi Square. There are four separate galleries inside the museum. The contemporary art produced in the nation is the primary emphasis of the main gallery. You’ll find a wide variety of paintings, sculptures, and ceramic works on display here. In addition, a lot of intriguing objects may be found in other galleries. The museum does an excellent job of providing an overview of the development of the modern art movement in the nation. In addition, the museum plays host to a variety of exhibits that are all in some way connected to contemporary art.
