Discover the Charms of Al-Karkh, Baghdad

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaea]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aathiraa]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam al'injlizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uridu an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا أأكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [uridu an adfaa, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [anserif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itassil bitalib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد شراء...
  [uridu shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا أتفرج فقط
  [ana atafaraj faqat]
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [kam huwa thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd alsaeer?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaae?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaae alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [alashirah walnisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [alsabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [aldhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa]
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [albarihah]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arbaah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sabah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tisah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين ...؟
  [ayn ...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'uenan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tarini (ealaa alkhariata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى القادم (الحافلة)؟
  [mata alqadim (alhafilah)?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tazkirah (ila ....)]

Al-Karkh, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Baghdad, gained prominence during the Abbasid Caliphate (750-1258 AD). Founded in 762 AD by Caliph Al-Mansur, Al-Karkh was strategically located across the Tigris River from the original city. This area became a thriving center of administration, culture, and trade, playing a crucial role in the Golden Age of Islam.

Throughout the medieval period, Al-Karkh became a melting pot of cultures, housing scholars, poets, and merchants from various backgrounds. The neighborhood was home to renowned intellectuals and artists, contributing to Baghdad's reputation as a global center of knowledge and innovation. The famed House of Wisdom, although located in the main city, influenced the cultural life of Al-Karkh.

The Mongol invasion in 1258 marked a devastating turning point for Al-Karkh and Baghdad as a whole. The city's destruction led to a significant decline in its population and infrastructure. However, Al-Karkh's resilience allowed it to gradually recover and maintain its cultural significance in the region.

During the Ottoman Empire (1517-1917), Al-Karkh saw significant urban development and architectural advancements. The Ottomans constructed numerous mosques, schools, and public buildings, many of which still stand today. This period enriched the neighborhood's cultural landscape, blending Ottoman and local styles that characterize much of Baghdad's historic architecture.

In the 20th century, Al-Karkh faced numerous challenges, including political instability and conflict. Despite these difficulties, the community has shown remarkable resilience. Efforts to restore historic sites and promote cultural heritage have gained momentum, as residents and local organizations work to preserve the rich history of Al-Karkh amid ongoing changes in Baghdad.

Al-Karkh is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Baghdad, including Kadhimiyah and Al-Mansour. Taxis are the most common mode of transportation, with rides typically costing between 5,000 to 10,000 IQD depending on the distance. Public buses also connect Al-Karkh to other areas, but they may be less frequent. For a more adventurous option, consider using a motorcycle taxi, which can navigate through traffic more easily.

Within Al-Karkh, taxis are the most efficient way to get around. The area is relatively compact, and walking is feasible for short distances. While public transportation options like buses do exist, they may not be as reliable. Bicycles can be rented in some parts, but be mindful of traffic conditions. Always negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey.

While Al-Karkh is generally safe, it is advisable to exercise caution, particularly in less crowded areas. Avoid walking alone at night and keep your belongings secure. Be particularly vigilant in places such as Al-Kadhimayn, as petty crime can occur. Always remain aware of your surroundings and try to blend in with local customs to avoid drawing attention.

In case of an emergency, the local police can be contacted at 104, and for medical emergencies, it is advisable to reach out to the nearest hospital or clinic. It is essential to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the locations of nearby hospitals and embassies for assistance.

Fashion: Do dress conservatively; women should wear long sleeves and skirts or trousers, while men should avoid shorts. Religion: Do respect religious practices; dress modestly when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly and women; don't engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake and a smile; don't use overly casual language. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept invitations to share meals; don't eat or drink in public during Ramadan.

To experience Al-Karkh like a local, visit the bustling markets, particularly the Al-Karkh market, where you can find fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with local vendors, as they often share stories and insights about their products. Try local restaurants for authentic Iraqi cuisine, and don't miss the chance to enjoy a cup of chai at a local tea shop. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can enhance your interactions with locals.

Understanding local customs is key to enjoying your visit. Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or a mosque. During religious events, be respectful and avoid taking photographs without permission. It's also customary to greet people with a phrase like 'Salam Alaikum' (Peace be upon you).

Ensure you have all necessary vaccinations before traveling to Iraq. Carry a basic first-aid kit and any personal medications, as pharmacies may have limited stock. Drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues, and be cautious with street food. Always wash your hands before meals and after using public facilities.