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Information About Iraq

Capital : Baghdad

Official Language : Arabic is the main language spoken in this country. Also Kurdish, Iraqi are widely spoken. Assyrian and Turkmen have been acknowledged as the official language in certain parts of Iraq where the Assyrian and the Iraqi Turkish population live.

Currency : Iraqi Dinar
The Republic of Iraq better known as Iraq is a country located in southwest of Asia. Numerous references have been drawn to suggest the origin of the name of the country. Historically the Iraq was known as 'Mesopotamia', meaning 'between the rivers' which has its connections with the world's first civilization, the Sumerian culture. In 6th century the country became a part of the Persian Empire after which it was conquered by Alexander, the great. Islam started to spread in the present day Iraq in the beginning of the 7th century AD. Somewhat larger than Paraguay in size, Iraq has a total area of 168,743 sq km under it.
Though most of the area is desert-covered, two main rivers namely the Euphrates and the Tigris make the area somewhat fertile. The northern part of the country is mountainous. The presence of Persian Gulf gifts Iraq with a small stretch of coastline. Summers are hot and dry. On the other hand the winters are cold with occasional snowfall in the mountain ranges. According to an estimate in 2005 the total population in Iraq is 26,074,906.

Iraq is famous for the musical instrument oud and rebab.

Major Cities of Iraq

Baghdad is the capital and by far the most important city of Iraq. Other important cities are Mosul, Basrah, Irbil, Kirkuk, Ramadiyah, Kut, and Falluja.

Tourist Attractions of Iraq

Hanging Gardens of Babylon: It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
The Euphrates River: Locally known as the Al-Furat, this shallow river has been referred to in the bilble.This region is known as the Garden of Eden according to the book of Genesis.
Ur Abraham's House: This place is also famous for its association with the Bible. A pyramid shaped Ziggurat is placed in the center of Ur. A military base was established by Saddam Hussein adjacent to this site.
The Presidential Palace: Built by Saddam Hussein the luxurious building I worth seeing.
The Tigris River: the beauty of the River is sure to mesmerize you.
Saddam Hussein Murals: The few remaining murals pose Saddam in different heroic stances.
Baghdad: Founded in 762 the city has a historical significance. The city houses many beautiful mosques and museums.
Hatra: Fortified by walls and citadels the archeological site has some of the beautiful temples.
Mosul: The Palace of Qara Sariai and the Mosque of Nabi Jirjis are worth seeing.

Accommodation in Iraq

Accommodation is no big a problem in Iraq. Hotels of both low and high ranges are available in plenty. Hotel Ishrat, Al Mansour hotel, Al Rasheed are the top three hotels in Baghdad. The rates ranges from $36 to $60.the Palestine International is a luxurious hotel where you can aboard at $90 for a single night. Most of these hotels are located in the heart of the city and are easily accessible.

Precautions to be taken in Iraq

It would wise to avoid carrying too much of cash. Due to strict security arrangements try to comply with the country's rules. As nothing is predictable take best care of yourself. Don't fall into false hands.

Iraq is undoubtedly beautiful place to travel. So what are you waiting for? For more information log on to allwondercountries.com.