Iraq
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At a glance
- Region
- Western Asia
- Capital
- Baghdad
- Population
- 46 million (2024)
- Area
- 438,317 km²
- Languages
- Arabic, Aramaic, Sorani
- Currency
- Iraqi dinar (IQD)
- Drives on the
- right
- Calling code
- +964
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Before you go
Overview
Iraq is situated in the Middle East and the northernmost of the Persian Gulf. At 2018 it recorded a population of 38.43 million and covers an area of 437,072 km2.
The capital city is Baghdad on Tigris River.
The oldest city is Eridu.
Its main port in Basra city.
Landscapes Of Iraq
History
The Ottoman reign ruled Iraq from 1534 to 1918. The British then took over and founded the state of Iraq that later became independent in 1932. Saddam Hussein became the president in 1979.
The country went to war with Iran between 1980 to 1988.
Food & culture
Although it is a Muslim dominated country, the country’s culture is influenced by the secular world.
The staple foods are wheat, barley, rice and dates. Iraqi biryani is also a common dish in the country.
Wildlife
The wildlife includes flora and fauna and animals like wild bear, Bactrian camel, fallow deer, roe deer, wild goat, European hare and goitered gazelle.
Festivals & events
The most celebrated festivals include the Independence day on 3rd October, Army Day on 6th January, Baghdad Liberation Day on 9th April and end of Iran-Iraq war on 8th August.
Things to see
The most visited cities with the best scenic sites are Karbala and Najaf.
The Iraq Museum in Baghdad contains artefacts and statues of the ancient times although some of them were stolen during the 2003 attack.
Eridu city which is claimed to be the oldest in the world created by gods is an archaeological site worth visiting to view the remains of the Sumerians.
The Babylon city known from the old Mesopotamia is located in present-day Iraq and it has the rebuilt ruins and castle of Saddam Hussein.
The Capital, Baghdad.
Interesting facts
The country is famous for its production of handicrafts like mats, rugs and carpets.
The country has some of the best sculptors, paints and poets amongst the Arab countries.
The main religion is Islam and the official languages are Arabic and Kurdish.
The main export that contributes the largest to the economy of the country is petroleum.
Neighbours
My Bucket List goals in Iraq
None on the list yet. Got a suggestion? Email Dan.