Victory Arch, Baghdad Travel Guide

The Victory Arch, officially known as the Swords of Qādisiyyah (Qaws al-Naṣr), is a triumphal archway and iconic landmark located in central Baghdad. Popularly called the Hands of Victory or the Crossed Swords, the monument comprises two sets of massive hands emerging from the ground, each gripping a 43-meter-long sword. The crossed swords form the arches that mark the entrances to the Grand Festivities Square.Commissioned by Saddam Hussein to commemorate the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988), the Victory Arch was designed by Iraqi sculptor Adil Kamil and constructed between 1986 and 1989. The hands are said to be modeled after Saddam Hussein's own. The name 'Swords of Qādisiyyah' alludes to the Battle of al-Qādisiyyah in 636 AD, a significant victory during the Muslim conquest of Persia.Walking beneath the arches allows visitors to appreciate the intricate details of the bronze hands and swords. While the monument carries a complex and controversial history, it remains a significant landmark in Baghdad, representing Iraq's military strength and the sacrifices made during the Iran-Iraq War. The surrounding area, known as Zawra Park, offers green spaces and a festive atmosphere.