Victory Arch, Baghdad Travel Guide

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A striking Baghdad landmark commemorating the Iran-Iraq War, symbolizing strength and resilience with its colossal crossed swords.

The Victory Arch, also known as the Swords of Qādisiyyah, is a triumphal arch in Baghdad, Iraq. Consisting of two massive outstretched hands holding crossed swords, the monument commemorates the Iran-Iraq War and symbolizes Iraqi strength and resilience.

A brief summary to Victory Arch

894P+4H4, Baghdad, Janain, Baghdad Governorate, IQ

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Victory Arch.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
Take time to explore the surrounding area for local crafts and street food.
Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the arch.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the site.

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Getting There

Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Baghdad. From central locations like Al-Tahrir Square, a taxi ride to the Victory Arch typically takes 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Agree on the fare before starting your journey. A typical fare should range from 5,000 to 15,000 IQD. Ride-sharing apps like Careem are also available.
Public Transport

To reach the Victory Arch via public transport, take a bus or shared taxi towards Baghdad city center. From the central bus station, local taxis or microbuses can take you to the Victory Arch. Provide the driver with the address '894P+4H4, Baghdad'. Bus fares are affordable, but taxi fares from the bus station to the arch may range from 2,000 to 5,000 IQD.

Discover more about Victory Arch

The Victory Arch, officially known as the Swords of Qādisiyyah (Qaws al-Naṣr), is an iconic monument in Baghdad, Iraq. Popularly called the Hands of Victory or the Crossed Swords, it consists of a pair of triumphal arches marking the entrances to the Grand Festivities Square.Commissioned by Saddam Hussein to commemorate the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988), the arch was constructed between 1986 and 1989. Designed by Iraqi sculptor Adil Kamil, with later contributions from Mohammed Ghani Hikmat, each arch features two enormous bronze hands modeled after Saddam Hussein's own, holding 43-meter-long swords. The name references the Battle of al-Qādisiyyah in 636 AD, a significant victory during the Muslim conquest of Persia.The monument has become a visitor attraction, offering a unique and thought-provoking experience. Visitors can walk beneath the arch and observe the intricate details of the hands and swords. The surrounding area provides space for leisurely strolls, with opportunities to engage with local vendors and experience Baghdad's culture.