Culture and Heritage
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Historic Babylon Lake Revived: Minister Announces Plans for a Landmark Museum
In a monumental step towards preserving Iraq’s rich heritage, the ancient city of Babylon witnessed the revival of its iconic lake today. The inauguration ceremony, led by Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities Dr. Ahmed Fakak Al-Badrani, and Minister of Water Resources Eng. Aoun Diab, marked the completion of cutting-edge…
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Cultural Relations Prepares Final UNESCO Report on Promoting Cultural Diversity
In line with its commitment to safeguarding and promoting cultural diversity, Iraq is preparing its second national report for UNESCO. The General Department of Cultural Relations, under the supervision of Director General Dr. Alaa Abu Al-Hassan Al-Alaq, recently organised a workshop focused on the 2005 UNESCO Convention on the Protection…
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Annual Taf Exhibition Unveils Artistic Narratives
The enduring themes of pain and martyrdom are vividly captured in the artwork showcased in the Ministry of Culture’s halls. On Monday 19th August, Dr. Ahmed Fakkak Al-Badrani, the Minister of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities, inaugurated the annual Taf exhibition, organised by the Department of Public Art. The event, overseen…
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Prime Minister Al-Sudani Launches First Phase of Ur Tourist City Project in Dhi Qar
Prime Minister Mohammed Shi’a Al-Sudani, accompanied by Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities Dr. Ahmed Fakkak Al-Badrani, inaugurated the first phase of the Ur Tourist City project during his recent visit to Dhi Qar Governorate. This initial phase includes the construction of a cultural centre, an open-air Sumerian theatre, a…
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Heritage on Two Levels: Baghdad’s Double-Decker Buses
The Leyland double-decker bus has been a significant part of Baghdad’s public transportation system and heritage since their introduction in the 1950s. These iconic buses have stood as a testament to Baghdad’s unique character among Arab capitals. Known locally as ‘Al-Maslaha’ or ‘Al-Amanah’, names derived from the Baghdad Municipality, these…
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Discovering Iraq: Interview with Author Karen Dabrowska
In this interview, we delve into the fascinating journey of author Karen Dabrowska, whose passion for Iraq’s cultural heritage has led her to write multiple books on the subject, including the notable Iraq: Then & Now: A Guide to the Country and Its People. She recounts how her initial trip to…
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Iraq Retrieves 181 Smuggled Ancient Artifacts
Iraq recently celebrated the return of 181 smuggled archaeological artifacts in a significant ceremony held at the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The artifacts, which include a variety of historically significant pieces such as a bronze figure and ancient skeletal remains, were illegally taken from Iraq and recovered from locations…
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The History of Mesopotamia: Interview with Professor & Archaeologist Roger Matthews
In an exclusive interview, Professor Roger Matthews, of the Archaeology Department at the University of Reading, speaks about his research and archaeological findings surrounding the prehistory and early history of the Mesopotamian region. Given your extensive research on Mesopotamia, could you explain why this region is considered the ‘cradle of…
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Baghdad Heritage Site: Khan Marjan
Khan Marjan, founded in 1358 by Wali Amin al-Din Mirjan, stands as one of Baghdad’s oldest khans, embodying a rich tradition of hospitality and commerce. Serving as a hub for social and economic activity, it provided a secure overnight stay for travelers crossing the region. This historic establishment not only…
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Easter Mass at St. George’s Episcopal Anglican Church in Baghdad
On Sunday 31st March, Iraqi Catholics and Protestants celebrated Easter Sunday, commemorating the resurrection (rising from the dead) of Jesus Christ. This was led up to by what Catholics/Protestants refer to as the ‘Holy Week’. It represents Jesus’ last days as well as his crucifixion, and these days are honoured…
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