Abu Nuwas Park
Abu Nuwas Park: Baghdad's Riverside Retreat
Firdos Square: A Baghdad Landmark
Explore Firdos Square in Baghdad, a historical landmark reflecting Iraq's journey and resilience, and a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike.
Firdos Square, located in central Baghdad, is a public space with a rich history, having been the site of various monuments and a focal point for significant events. It's a place where visitors can reflect on Iraq's past and witness the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Firdos Square
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Baghdad, Abu Nuwas, Baghdad Governorate, IQ
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Firdos Square
Getting There
Walking
Firdos Square is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many nearby landmarks and hotels. From the Palestine Hotel or Sheraton Ishtar Hotel, simply exit onto the street and walk towards the square. The square is located in the middle of al-Sa'doun Street and between Tahrir and Kahramana squares. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport
Baghdad has a public transportation system that includes buses. Bus stops are located on major streets and near key points of interest. Check local transit apps or websites for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A typical bus fare within the city is around $0.35 USD.
Taxi
Taxis are a common mode of transport in Baghdad. They can be found throughout the city, and ride-sharing apps like Careem are also available. It's advisable to negotiate the fare before starting your trip. As a general estimate, an 8 km taxi ride in Baghdad would cost around 23,325 IQD. A 5km ride in Baghdad costs about 12.1 USD.
Local tips
✓
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the square in a more peaceful setting.
✓
Engage with local residents to hear their stories and gain insights into the square's significance.
✓
Take time to absorb the atmosphere and reflect on the history and culture of Baghdad.
Discover more about Firdos Square
Firdos Square, meaning 'paradise' in Persian, is a public open space in the heart of Baghdad, Iraq. Situated on al-Sa'doun Street, between Tahrir and Kahramana squares, it faces the 17th of Ramadan Mosque and Abu Nuwas Street along the Tigris River. The square has been the location of monumental artworks and witnessed pivotal moments in Iraq's history.Initially, the square featured the monumental arch, The Unknown Soldier, in 1959. Later, a statue of Saddam Hussein was erected in April 2002 to honor his 65th birthday. However, the square gained international attention in 2003 when the statue was toppled by Iraqi citizens and U.S. forces during the invasion of Iraq, symbolizing a turning point in the conflict. This event became a powerful image, representing both victory and American propaganda.In the years following, the square underwent reconstruction, with a green, abstract sculpture by Bassem Hamad al-Dawiri replacing the Saddam statue. This sculpture represents an Iraqi family holding aloft a crescent moon and the sun, symbolizing Islam and the ancient Sumerian civilization. Today, Firdos Square stands as a testament to Baghdad's resilience, offering visitors a space to contemplate the city's past and experience its present.
A brief summary to Firdos Square
Use Firdos Square as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Baghdad
Explore Baghdad, where ancient history meets modern culture, and discover the vibrant markets, historic sites, and rich culinary traditions of Iraq's capital city.
Tell me more about Baghdad
