Iraqi Museum: a journey through ancient civilizations

Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – In the heart of Baghdad stands a building with a legacy that stretches back 65,000 years. This edifice invites you to explore the very origins of civilization. Within its walls, history is preserved in the form of the first alphabet, the first legal codes, and the earliest known art forms. Welcome to the Iraqi Museum, where the ancient past comes to life.

Historical background of the Iraqi Museum

The Iraqi Museum, originally constructed in 1923 in Al-Rusafa, has changed locations several times before settling in its current site in Al-Salihiya, next to the renowned Allawi station. The present building, designed and constructed by a team of professional architects, began construction in 1957 and was completed in 1963. Since then, the museum has served as a beacon for those seeking to understand and appreciate the depths of human history.

Structure and layout of the museum

The building consists of two floors with a total of twenty-three halls, each dedicated to different eras of Iraqi history. The journey begins with the Neanderthals 65,000 years ago and continues through to the Islamic ages. Each pair of halls showcases a distinct civilization, arranged in chronological order: the prehistoric era, Sumerian, Babylonian, Assyrian, Chaldean, Sasanian, and Islamic civilizations. This thoughtful arrangement allows visitors to experience the progression and richness of Iraq’s historical legacy.

Every year, tourists from across the world flock to the museum to delve into the rich tapestry of civilizations that once flourished on this soil.

The Assyrian Hall

Among the twenty-three halls of the Iraqi Museum, one stands out as bustling with visitors. Stepping into this hall, a profound sense of awe washes over you. You might even feel as though you’re in the presence of a mighty king – and indeed, you are! The Assyrian Hall is meticulously crafted to replicate the grandeur of a chamber from an Assyrian king’s palace, right down to its dimensions.

But it’s not just the size that impresses; towering statues, such as the iconic winged bull, and magnificent representations of Assyrian deities adorn the space. What sets the Assyrian Hall apart is its unparalleled authenticity – it’s the only museum hall in the world designed with such meticulous attention to detail. Here, history isn’t merely displayed; it’s brought vividly to life, immersing you in the majesty and splendor of ancient Assyria.

Significant artifacts

The Iraqi Museum houses a collection of some of the most significant historical artifacts, showcasing the ingenuity and creativity of ancient Iraqis. Among these treasures, the Sumerian Guitar stands as a testament to the Sumerians’ deep engagement with art and music, dating back five thousand years. Additionally, the Sumerian Votive Bowl offers insight into the philosophical depth of Mesopotamian thought, revealing their contemplation of metaphysical concepts.

The museum boasts an algebraic-geometrical tablet, demonstrating ancient Iraqis’ remarkable advancements in mathematics. This tablet features metathetical calculations akin to the theorems of Euclid, underscoring the sophistication of mathematical knowledge in ancient Iraq. These artifacts not only provide a glimpse into the past but also highlight the enduring legacy of innovation and intellectual pursuit in Mesopotamia.

Correct name of the museum

The museum has been given different names by various media outlets and news agencies, but its official title is the Iraqi Museum, reflecting the entirety of Iraq’s history. Continuous development includes ongoing renovations and improvements to its halls, with the recently renewed Assyrian Hall. The Sumerian Hall is currently undergoing development. Additionally, the Iraqi government is actively involved in efforts to repatriate stolen archaeological pieces, fostering hope for the museum’s sustained preservation and growth.

Visiting information

Museum Hours:
– Monday to Thursday: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
– Friday: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Entry Admission:
– 3,000 Iraqi dinars for Iraqi visitors on weekdays
– 25,000 Iraqi dinars for tourists
– Free for Iraqis on Friday

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