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Al-Salam Palace: A Symbol of Iraqi History

Explore Al-Salam Palace in Baghdad, a landmark of Iraqi history, architecture, and the nation's journey toward peace and restoration.

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Al-Salam Palace in Baghdad is a significant landmark embodying Iraq's complex history. Originally built in the late 1990s for Saddam Hussein, it served as a symbol of his power. Later, it was used as a military headquarters by coalition forces after the 2003 invasion. Today, it stands as a testament to Iraq's journey toward peace and restoration.

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A brief summary to Al-Salam Palace

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

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لا توجد, Al-Salam Palace، شارع الكندي, Baghdad, Outer Karrada, Baghdad Governorate, IQ
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Al-Salam Palace.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Check the current security situation and travel advisories before visiting Al-Salam Palace.
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
Dress modestly to respect the cultural significance of the location.
Explore the surrounding gardens for a peaceful retreat.

Discover more about Al-Salam Palace

Al-Salam Palace, also known as the Palace of Peace, is an iconic landmark in Baghdad, reflecting Iraq's rich and turbulent past. Constructed in the late 1990s under Saddam Hussein, it was intended to showcase his authority and replaced the Republican Guard Headquarters destroyed in the Gulf War. The palace boasts impressive architecture with 200 rooms and approximately 93,000 square meters of floor space, featuring marble floors, granite walls, and hand-carved ceilings. During the 2003 invasion of Iraq, the palace was taken over by coalition forces and used as a military headquarters. It sustained damage during this period. In 2012, the palace was handed back to the Iraqi government and now stands as a symbol of Iraq's efforts toward peace and restoration. While the palace's interior may not always be open to the public, its exterior and surrounding gardens offer a glimpse into Iraq's architectural and historical grandeur. The palace is near other attractions such as the Baghdad Mall and Baghdad Zoo, making it a worthwhile stop for those exploring Baghdad.

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    Getting There

    Taxi

    Taxis are a common mode of transport in Baghdad. From central Baghdad, a taxi ride to Al-Salam Palace typically takes around 6 minutes, covering approximately 8 kilometers. Fares are typically negotiated in advance, as Baghdad taxis are not usually equipped with meters. Expect to pay around $14 - $18 USD for the trip. You can find taxis throughout the city, or use ride-sharing apps like Careem.

    Public Transport

    From Tahrir Square, take a microbus or shared taxi heading towards Outer Karrada. Ask the driver to drop you off at Al-Kindi Street. From there, walk straight for about 10 minutes to reach Al-Salam Palace. Bus tickets should be pre-purchased at kiosks. The cost for a bus ticket is between 250-500 IQD. Negotiate the fare for a shared taxi before starting your journey.

    Walking

    If you are near Al-Kindi Street, you can walk to Al-Salam Palace. From the nearest bus stop on Al-Kindi Street, head straight. The walk may take about 15-20 minutes. Be aware of your surroundings and local landmarks to guide your way.

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