Background

Al-Mutanabbi Street: Baghdad's Literary Heart

Explore Baghdad's Al-Mutanabbi Street: A historic literary hub, vibrant cultural center, and home to rare books and intellectual exchange.

4.5

Al-Mutanabbi Street, located in the heart of Baghdad, is a historic hub of bookselling and Iraqi intellectual life, named after the celebrated 10th-century poet. It offers a vibrant atmosphere where one can find rare books, manuscripts, and a deep connection to Iraq's cultural past.

A brief summary to المتنبي مستنصر

  • 89RQ+JRP, Mutanabi, Baghdad, Al Rasheed, Baghdad Governorate, IQ

Local tips

  • Visit on Friday to experience the street's lively book market.
  • Bargain with vendors for the best prices on books and souvenirs.
  • Enjoy tea or coffee at the traditional Shabandar Cafe.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    Al-Mutanabbi Street is located in the Al Rasheed district of Baghdad. From the Baghdad Museum, walk northeast along Al Rasheed Street. After approximately 1 kilometer, you will find Al-Mutanabbi Street on your left. The walk is straightforward and offers a glimpse into the city's historic architecture. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Al-Mutanabbi Street via public transport, take a bus to Al Rasheed Street. Several bus routes serve this major thoroughfare. From Al Rasheed Street, walk towards Al-Mutanabbi Street, which will be on your left. Bus fares typically cost around IQD 500-1000. Ensure you pre-purchase your bus ticket at a kiosk.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Baghdad. Simply ask the driver to take you to Al-Mutanabbi Street in the Al Rasheed district. A short taxi ride from a central location like Tahrir Square will cost approximately IQD 12,100 (USD $12.1). Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey as taxis are not equipped with meters.

Unlock the Best of المتنبي مستنصر

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about المتنبي مستنصر

Al-Mutanabbi Street, found in Baghdad, is more than just a street; it's the vibrant heart of the city's literary scene. Named after the renowned 10th-century Iraqi poet Al-Mutanabbi, it has been a center for bookselling and intellectual exchange for centuries. Every Friday, the street comes alive as booksellers display their wares, ranging from ancient manuscripts to contemporary publications. The air is filled with the aroma of spices and the lively chatter of people discussing literature and current affairs. It's a place where one can discover rare finds, connect with local writers and intellectuals, and soak in the rich cultural heritage of Iraq. Beyond the books, Al-Mutanabbi Street is home to historic buildings, including a 19th-century printing press and the old civil court buildings. At the end of the street, one can find the traditional Shabandar Cafe, a popular gathering spot for artists and intellectuals. A statue of Al-Mutanabbi stands as a tribute to the poet and a symbol of the street's enduring legacy. Visiting Al-Mutanabbi Street offers an immersive experience into Baghdad's cultural soul. It's a place where the past and present converge, where literature thrives, and where the spirit of Al-Mutanabbi lives on.

Popular Experiences near المتنبي مستنصر

Popular Hotels near المتنبي مستنصر

Select Currency