【Middle East】Top 7 Recommended Tourist Spots in Iraq!｜Discover Rare and Ancient Ruins!

Iraq, often referred to as "a land with a rich past,". From the cradle of Mesopotamian civilization to the rise of powerful empires that shaped early human history, it is a place where history runs deep.

Although the current situation makes travel challenging, Iraq offers a captivating allure with its rare and historically significant ruins, many of which are now fascinating tourist destinations.

Curious about what awaits? Explore and discover these incredible spots.

① Samarra Archaeological City

The first tourist destination in Iraq is the Samarra Archaeological City. Located along the Tigris River, it flourished as the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate from 836 to 892. This site is said to be the only Abbasid urban ruin that retains its original form.

Approximately 80% of the ruins are still unexcavated. The city was home to what were then the world's largest mosques and palaces. Among them, the spiral minaret of the mosque is considered one of the most important ruins in Iraq and is regarded as a treasure of the nation.

Samarra also houses the mausoleums of the 10th and 11th Imams, making it a sacred site for Shia Muslims.

② Hatra Archaeological Site

Hatra is a historical city ruin located in the northern desert region of Iraq. It was once a significant tourist site but was unfortunately destroyed by the extremist group "Islamic State" in March 2015.

Hatra, also known as the "House of the Gods," was built around the 1st century BCE as a military city of the Parthians. The city was defended by double circular walls and moats and had five main gates.

At its center was a square, where a temple with eight domes was constructed. Stone statues of gods, human figures, gold ornaments, and other artifacts were unearthed here, with inscriptions carved in Aramaic.

The restoration of the 2,000-year-old Hatra ruins requires significant time and resources, necessitating international cooperation. One hopes to see its revival as a tourist attraction.

③ Mar Mattai Monastery

One of the must-visit attractions in Iraq is the historic Mar Mattai Monastery. Located in northern Iraq, this ancient site lies in the buffer zone between the Kurdistan Region and the Iraqi mainland.

Dating back to 363 AD, Mar Mattai Monastery is among the oldest monasteries in the world. Its extraordinary significance makes it a testament to the deep historical and cultural heritage of Iraq.

While the security conditions in Iraq can vary daily and require caution, the border region often enjoys a relatively stable environment, making it a more accessible area for travelers.

④ Erbil Citadel

Another iconic tourist destination in Iraq is the Erbil Citadel. Located in the northern city of Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region, this site is renowned as one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.

The history of Erbil dates back as far as 5000–3000 BC, during the era of Mesopotamian city-states. The city evolved around the citadel, which sits atop a tell (archaeological mound) that has accumulated over 6,000 years of human habitation. Remarkably, the fortified structures atop the mound remain inhabited to this day.

The citadel’s interior boasts a labyrinth of narrow alleyways and hidden cul-de-sacs, offering visitors an intriguing glimpse into its past. The recent addition of museums has further enhanced its appeal as a destination for history enthusiasts.

⑤ Ashur Ruins

Ashur (Ashur) was the first capital of the ancient Assyrian Empire, located on the western bank of the Tigris River, north of Iraq's capital, Baghdad. This Iraqi archaeological site is at risk of submersion due to a dam construction project.

Although the dam construction plan is currently suspended, the situation remains uncertain.

Ashur was both a key transportation hub and the religious center of Assyria. While it is a valuable relic of the ancient Near East, much of the site, including the ziggurat (sacred tower) and palace ruins, remains buried. According to records, there were 38 temples, but excavation has not progressed.

Hopefully, further excavation will take place in the future, allowing tourists to visit.

⑥ Mar Gorgis Cathedral

Next, let us introduce the Mar Gorgis Cathedral.

The Mar Gorgis Cathedral is a church located near Iraq's northern border in the Kurdish Autonomous Region. It is in Alqosh, a historically old village within the Kurdish region.

This stone-built church perfectly reflects the image of the Middle East. It is not a well-known tourist destination, making it a hidden gem among Iraq's attractions.

⑦ Babylon Ruins

Babylon is an ancient city of Mesopotamia that spans the Euphrates River, located about 90 km south of Baghdad, Iraq. Known for its massive walls and the legendary Hanging Gardens, it is counted among the Seven Wonders of the World.

Although the Babylonian Empire was mentioned in the Bible, at one point it was even said to have "never existed." However, it was discovered in 1899 by a German archaeologist, and further research revealed that at its peak, it was a massive city with a population of millions.

It is also said to be the birthplace of writing and literature, flourishing with rich culture.

The heart of the ruins is the Ishtar Gate, a grand gate adorned with dragons and bulls, but the gate is currently exhibited in the Pergamon Museum in Berlin. Nonetheless, Babylon is one of the tourist spots you should visit in Iraq to see with your own eyes.

◎ Summary of Tourist Spots in Iraq

We’ve introduced some of Iraq’s most iconic landmarks. Each of these sites offers a profound connection to history, making them dream destinations for many.

However, Iraq’s current unstable political climate poses challenges for tourists. For those considering a visit, it is essential to stay informed through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Overseas Safety website and travel only when conditions are deemed safe. Let us hope for a brighter future where Iraq transforms into a thriving hub for tourism, free from the shadows of conflict and instability.

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【Middle East】Top 7 Recommended Tourist Spots in Iraq!｜Discover Rare and Ancient Ruins!