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Unknown Soldier Monument: A Symbol of Iraqi Pride

A poignant Baghdad landmark honoring Iraq's fallen soldiers, featuring unique architecture and an underground museum. A place for reflection and remembrance.

4.5

The Unknown Soldier Monument in Baghdad is a memorial dedicated to Iraqi soldiers who died in the Iran-Iraq War. Designed by Italian architect Marcello D'Olivo and Iraqi sculptor Khaled al-Rahal, it represents a traditional shield falling from a dying warrior's grasp and includes an underground museum.

A brief summary to Unknown Soldier Monument

  • 895Q+CMP, Baghdad, Janain, Baghdad Governorate, IQ
  • +964603159595

Local tips

  • Visit the underground museum to gain deeper insights into Iraq's military history and the stories of the soldiers commemorated by the monument.
  • Take time to appreciate the monument's architecture, which blends modern design with traditional Iraqi symbolism.
  • Reflect on the monument's significance as a symbol of national pride and remembrance for the sacrifices made by Iraqi soldiers.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From central Baghdad, head east towards the Tigris River. Walk along Al-Mansour Street until you reach Al-Jadriya Bridge. Cross the bridge to the eastern side of the river. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with 14th July Street. Turn left onto 14th July Street and follow it north; the Unknown Soldier Monument will be on your right. The monument is located in the Janain area.

  • Public Transport

    Locate the nearest bus stop and take a bus heading towards Al-Jadriya. Once you arrive at the Al-Jadriya area, disembark and walk north along 14th July Street. The Unknown Soldier Monument will be on your right. Bus fares typically cost around IQD 500.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Baghdad. Agree on a fare with the driver before departing, as taxis are not typically equipped with meters. A 5km taxi ride in Baghdad costs about 12.1 USD. From Baghdad International Airport to the monument, expect to pay around €45 (IQD 63,591).

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Discover more about Unknown Soldier Monument

The Monument to the Unknown Soldier in Baghdad stands as a powerful symbol of sacrifice and national pride. Commissioned in 1979 and completed in 1982, it commemorates the martyrs of the Iran-Iraq War. The monument was part of a broader initiative to instill a sense of national identity and honor Saddam Hussein's leadership. The monument's design, a collaboration between Italian architect Marcello D'Olivo and Iraqi sculptor Khaled al-Rahal, features a traditional shield (dira'a) dropping from the grasp of a dying Iraqi warrior. Beneath the shield is a cube made of seven layers of metal, representing the seven levels of Jannah (paradise) in Islam, with red acrylic sheets symbolizing the blood of fallen soldiers. The inclination of the shield is 12 degrees and has a 42 meters diameter. Adjacent to the dome is a spiral tower reminiscent of the Samarra minaret, clad in copper with an interior soffit of alternating steel and copper pyramidal modules. The site also includes an underground museum accessible via a shaft with windows, allowing light to filter in from above. Inside, visitors can view the structure above through these openings. Located in central Baghdad, the monument is near the Great Celebrations square, with the Al-Shaheed Monument and Victory Arch nearby. The monument serves as a place for reflection and remembrance, honoring the soldiers' bravery and sacrifice.

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