Iraq - Baghdad

We have travelled for many weeks now and honestly, this trip has been the best experience in my life so far. We’ve seen the most beautiful places, discovered a wonderful nature and met amazing people. This is the last time I’ll write about our trip but I highly recommend you to also read the adventures of my colleagues who write here regularly as well. 

After Iran, we went to Iraq and more specifically to the capital Baghdad. We were extremely cautious because the travel agents advised us not to go to the country at all. It’s very dangerous to travel to Iraq because the people from the Middle East don’t like people from the West or anyone who helped the West invade the country. You could easily be kidnapped or car jacked. Consequently, Iraq was not my absolute favourite. 

So why did we take the risk?  It’s simple: Iraq has an interesting culture and history. Many people don’t realise this because the city is always associated with war and cruelty. Therefore, I’m glad that I can give you another view on the country and its capital. 

When we arrived in Baghdad, we first went to the International Zone where we bought DVD’s, a rug and even ate a Big Mac at McDonalds. As you see, some parts of Iraq are accessible ! Afterwards, we visited two buildings that reflected the history of Baghdad. In the Iraq Museum, we saw man-made artefacts that represented the different cultures in Iraq, for example the Babylonian and Islamic culture. It had the most important collections in the world. I didn’t think that such impressive buildings were to be found in Iraq… In the National Museum of Modern Art we saw beautiful paintings, sculptures, and ceramics made by talented Iraqi artists. Unfortunately, many of these museums objects are lost because of the Iraq War. Then we walked through the Al-Safateer market. There we saw exhibits and nice copper objects, for example tea accessories. This market really reflected the culture and economy of Baghdad. Lastly, we saw a performance in the National Theatre of Iraq. It was wonderful! Baghdad has a fantastic recreational culture. 

Al-Safateer Market

I hope you all enjoyed reading my blog. One little hint for all the travellers among us: keep your eyes open because the world has so much to offer, even when you’re least expecting it! 

Ulrike

Sources:

http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/48773/Baghdad/24883/Cultural-life

http://www.iraqiembassy.us/page/art-and-culture

http://www.theiraqmuseum.com/

http://www.baghdad-travel.net/

http://www.iraq-tourism.net/safe-to-travel-to-iraq.html