Culture and Heritage

Iraqi heritage is one of the great cultural treasures of the MENA region. It's like a map of ancient civilizations, from the Sumerians, Akadian, Babylonian, and Assyrians. These civilizations left a visible mark on Iraq's culture and identity.

Unfortunately, preserving Iraqi heritage has become very challenging in recent times. Wars, conflicts, political and economic instability, and a lack of government and financial support have led to the destruction of historical sites and the illegal trading of priceless artefacts. The Gulf War in 1990, the Iraq War in 2003, and the rise of the Islamic State in 2014 all caused significant damage to heritage sites and the theft of valuable artifacts.

Despite these challenges, there is a growing commitment to protect and restore Iraq's cultural heritage. Local initiatives, international partnerships, and government support have all played a role in safeguarding these precious pieces of history. The Iraq National Museum in Baghdad, once a symbol of loss and the tragedies of Iraq’s modern history, has been beautifully restored and now stands as a gateway to Iraq's heritage. It represents Iraq's determination to preserve its heritage and serves as a symbol of hope.

Additionally, UNESCO has recognized several Iraqi sites as World Heritage Sites, including Assur, Samarra, Erbil Citadel, Babylon, and more. Iraqi citizens are also actively involved in saving their heritage. They work together to protect sites and traditions because they are proud of their culture and want to preserve it for future generations.

While there are still challenges, such as security issues and limited resources, people are determined to protect Iraq's heritage. The world also needs to pitch in. Iraq's culture isn't just for Iraqis; it's part of human history. Together, we can ensure that these treasures continue to inspire and educate people around the world for a long time to come.