Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Iraq
CapitalBaghdad
Population46.1 million
Area438,317 km² (169,235 sq mi)
LanguagesArabic, Aramaic, Sorani
CurrencyIraqi dinar (ع.د)
TimezoneUTC+03:00
RegionAsia / Western Asia
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Notable Achievements
| Category | Achievement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Science | Ancient Babylonian Astronomy | The ancient Babylonians made significant contributions to astronomy, including mapping the movements of the stars and planets, and dividing the circle into 360 degrees. |
| Sports | Football Success | The Iraqi national football team won the 2007 AFC Asian Cup, defeating Saudi Arabia 1-0 in the final, and has qualified for the FIFA World Cup once, in 1986. |
| Arts | Iraqi Literature | Iraqi literature has a rich history, with famous writers such as Saddam Hussein's novel "Zabiba and the King", and Adunis's poetry, which has been translated into many languages. |
| Development | Reconstruction Efforts | Iraq has made significant progress in rebuilding its infrastructure, including the reconstruction of the Mosul Dam, which provides hydroelectric power and water for irrigation. |
| Innovation | Ancient Irrigation Systems | The ancient Sumerians, who lived in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), developed sophisticated irrigation systems, including canals, dams, and reservoirs, which allowed for the growth of cities and civilizations. |
| Global Contributions | Oil Production | Iraq is one of the world's largest oil producers, with the Kirkuk oil field being one of the oldest and most productive oil fields in the world, and has contributed significantly to the global energy market. |
| Education | Ancient Universities | The University of Nalanda, which was established in the 5th century AD, was one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, and attracted scholars from all over the ancient world, including Iraq. |
| Medicine | Ancient Medical Knowledge | The ancient Iraqis made significant contributions to medical knowledge, including the discovery of the concept of infectious diseases, and the development of treatments for diseases such as epilepsy. |
Cultural Treasures
- The ancient city of Babylon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to the famous Ishtar Gate and the Hanging Gardens, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- The National Museum of Iraq in Baghdad is home to a vast collection of artifacts and treasures from ancient Mesopotamia, including the Weld-Blundell Prism, which is one of the oldest surviving examples of written language.
- The traditional Iraqi maqam music is a unique and complex form of music that has been recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
- The ancient city of Ur, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to the famous Ziggurat of Ur, a stepped pyramid dedicated to the moon god Nanna.
- The Kurdish New Year (Nowruz) is a significant cultural celebration in Iraq, which marks the beginning of spring and is celebrated with traditional music, dance, and food.
People & Global Impact
- Saddam Hussein, the former President of Iraq, played a significant role in shaping the country's history and politics, and his legacy continues to be felt today.
- Ahmed Chalabi, an Iraqi politician and economist, played a key role in the country's transition to democracy after the fall of Saddam Hussein.
- Zaha Hadid, a world-renowned Iraqi-British architect, was the first woman to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize, and has designed many iconic buildings around the world, including the Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku, Azerbaijan.
- The Iraqi diaspora has made significant contributions to the global community, with many Iraqis living and working abroad, and making significant contributions to fields such as medicine, science, and politics.
What Visitors Love
- The hospitality of the Iraqi people, who are known for their warm welcome and generosity to visitors.
- The traditional Iraqi cuisine, which includes dishes such as masgouf (grilled carp), dolma (stuffed vegetables), and gormeh sabzi (a herb-based stew).
- The scenic beauty of the Iraqi countryside, which includes the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, and the Zagros Mountains.
- The rich history and cultural heritage of Iraq, which includes many ancient cities, ruins, and artifacts.
- The vibrant markets and bazaars, such as the Ghazl Market in Baghdad, which offer a wide range of goods, including traditional handicrafts, spices, and textiles.
- The festivals and celebrations, such as the Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, which are significant cultural events in Iraq.
Hidden Gems
- The Marsh Arabs, who live in the southern marshes of Iraq, have a unique and traditional way of life, which is centered around fishing, boating, and farming.
- The Kurdish region of Iraq, which is home to a diverse range of cultures, languages, and traditions, and offers a unique and fascinating experience for visitors.
- The ancient city of Hatra, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is known for its well-preserved ancient ruins and artifacts.
- The Iraqi dates, which are considered to be some of the best in the world, and are a significant export of the country.