Holiday in Baghdad

About Baghdad

Baghdad is one of the most historically significant cities in humanity — founded in 762 as the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate, it was for centuries the intellectual center of the Islamic world: Here, the House of Wisdom was established, where scholars translated Greek philosophy, Persian medicine, and Indian mathematics into Arabic, preserving ancient knowledge for Europe. The tales of 1001 Nights take place in an idealized Baghdad, and the city on the Tigris still bears the nickname 'City of Peace' (Madinat al-Salam). Modern Baghdad is a city on the rise after decades of war and sanctions. The security situation has improved significantly since 2018, and the city is cautiously opening up to tourists — a visa is available, and a growing number of tour operators offer guided tours. Those who come experience a city of raw authenticity: Al-Mutanabbi Street, Baghdad's historic book street, is a lively market for books, calligraphy, and intellectual exchange on Fridays. Al-Mustansiriya University, founded in 1227, is one of the oldest in the world and an architectural jewel of Abbasid architecture. The Tigris divides the city into eastern Rusafa and western Karkh, connected by bridges that provide a surprisingly romantic backdrop when illuminated at night. The Iraqi National Museum, carefully restored after looting during the 2003 war, preserves artifacts from 7,000 years of Mesopotamian civilization — from Sumerian cuneiform tablets to Assyrian reliefs, making the cradle of civilization tangible. Baghdad is not an easy travel destination — but for travelers seeking history, authenticity, and off-the-beaten-path experiences, the city offers a depth and hospitality that is unforgettable.