Baghdad

Baghdad, also known as the “City of Peace”, is the capital of Iraq and home to over seven million people. Situated on the banks of the Tigris River, it has a rich history dating back over 1,000 years.

According to legend, Baghdad was founded in 762 AD by Caliph Al-Mansur, who chose the location for its strategic value and abundance of palm trees. At the time, he declared that “this is the city that shall be built,” and so it was.

Over the centuries, Baghdad has been a hub of culture and learning, boasting some of the world’s greatest poets, philosophers, and scholars. It was also the center of the Islamic world during the Abbasid dynasty.

Unfortunately, Baghdad has not been without its troubles. The city has been ravaged by war and conflict, with invasions by the Mongols, Ottomans, and British, among others. In fact, it is said that when the Mongols sacked Baghdad in 1258, they created a Tigris River made of blood from all the massacred people.

Despite this bloody history, Baghdad remains a vibrant and colorful city, filled with markets, museums, and mosques. Visitors can stroll along the famous Mutanabbi Street, where booksellers and artists hawk their wares, or explore the ruins of ancient Babylon and the Ishtar Gate.

However, it is probably best to avoid discussing politics or religion in Baghdad, as tensions run high and emotions can flare. It’s also a good idea to brush up on your Arabic, as not everyone speaks English.

All in all, Baghdad is a fascinating and complex city, with a rich history and a bright future. As they say in Iraq, “baghdah is where the heart is.”