Martyr Monument, Baghdad Travel Guide

4.5 (1279)

A poignant Baghdad landmark honoring Iraq's fallen heroes, featuring a stunning turquoise dome and serene memorial grounds.

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Martyr Monument

The Martyr Monument, also known as Al-Shaheed Monument, is an iconic landmark in Baghdad commemorating Iraqi soldiers who lost their lives in the Iran-Iraq War. Its design, featuring a split turquoise dome, stands as a poignant reminder of sacrifice and resilience. The monument has since become a memorial for all fallen Iraqis in all wars.

A brief summary to Martyr Monument

Baghdad, Shuhed Monument, Baghdad Governorate, IQ
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Monday 8 am-3 pm
Tuesday 8 am-3 pm
Wednesday 8 am-3 pm
Thursday 8 am-3 pm
Friday 8 am-3 pm
Saturday 8 am-3 pm
Sunday 8 am-11 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during the cooler months (October to April) to avoid Baghdad's extreme heat.
Dress conservatively to respect local customs and the monument's significance.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's best to confirm beforehand due to the site's sensitive nature.
Explore the museum beneath the monument to gain deeper insights into the Iran-Iraq War and its impact.

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Getting There

Taxi

From central Baghdad, a taxi ride to the Martyr Monument typically costs between 5,000 to 10,000 IQD, depending on traffic and your starting location. Agree on the fare with the driver before starting the journey. The ride usually takes 20-30 minutes.
Public Transport

Several local buses connect different parts of Baghdad to the Al-Rusafa district, where the Martyr Monument is located. You can take a bus heading towards Al Rusafa and ask the driver to drop you off near the Martyr Monument. Bus fares are typically very low, around 250-500 IQD for a single trip.

Discover more about Martyr Monument

The Martyr Monument, or Al-Shaheed Monument, is a significant landmark in Baghdad, Iraq, serving as a memorial to those who sacrificed their lives, particularly during the Iran-Iraq War. Constructed between 1981 and 1983 and opened in 1983, the monument was designed by Iraqi sculptor Ismail Fatah al-Turk and architect Saman Kamal. It was one of several public works projects initiated by Saddam Hussein to beautify Baghdad and instill national pride.The monument's design is both striking and symbolic. A 40-meter (131 feet) tall split turquoise dome sits on a circular platform 190 meters in diameter in the center of an artificial lake. The split dome is made of a galvanized steel frame with glazed turquoise ceramic tiles. The two halves of the dome are offset, with an eternal flame in the middle. One half shelters a circular pool, while the other protects an Iraqi flag. Beneath the monument lies a museum, library, gallery, and lecture hall. The surrounding area includes parks, playgrounds, walkways, and bridges.Today, the Martyr Monument stands as a place where visitors can pay their respects to all Iraqis who have lost their lives in conflicts. The museum displays artifacts and narratives related to the events leading up to the monument's creation, providing insight into Iraq's socio-political landscape. The monument is particularly stunning at sunset, when the light bathes its surfaces, creating a breathtaking backdrop.