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Victory Arch: Swords of Qādisiyyah
A striking Baghdad monument featuring colossal crossed swords held by giant hands, commemorating Iraq's strength and resilience after the Iran-Iraq War.
The Victory Arch, also known as the Swords of Qādisiyyah, is a triumphal arch in Baghdad, Iraq. It consists of two sets of outstretched hands each holding a 43-meter-long sword. The monument commemorates the Iran-Iraq War and serves as a reminder of Iraq's history and resilience.
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A brief summary to Victory Arch
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
894P+4H4, Baghdad, Janain, Baghdad Governorate, IQ
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Getting There
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Baghdad and are a convenient way to reach the Victory Arch. Agree on a fare with the driver before starting your journey. A short taxi ride from central Baghdad, such as Tahrir Square, to the Victory Arch typically costs between IQD 5,000 and IQD 10,000. Ensure you have Iraqi Dinar for payment, as card payments are not commonly accepted.
Public Transport
Public transport options, such as minibuses, are available from various points in Baghdad. Head to Alawi garage to catch a shared taxi or minivan. A one-way journey in a minivan costs around 10,000 Iraqi dinars. Shared taxis are slightly more expensive but offer a faster and more comfortable ride.
Local tips
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Visit during the day for the best views and photo opportunities.
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Be respectful of the monument's historical significance.
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Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Monument to the Unknown Soldier.
Discover more about Victory Arch
The Victory Arch, officially known as the Swords of Qādisiyyah, is an iconic monument in Baghdad, Iraq. Popularly called the Hands of Victory or the Crossed Swords, the arch consists of two pairs of outstretched hands, each gripping a massive sword. These arches mark the entrances to the Grand Festivities Square, a parade ground built to commemorate the Iran-Iraq War, which was initiated and led by Iraq's then-president Saddam Hussein. The arches were opened to the public on August 8, 1989.
The design of the Victory Arch is based on a concept sketch by Saddam Hussein. Iraq's leading sculptor, Khaled al-Rahal, was commissioned to design and construct the arches. After al-Rahal's death in 1987, Mohammed Ghani Hikmat took over the project. The swords are made of stainless steel and are based on the weapons wielded by Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas at the Battle of Qadisiyya. The hands appear to burst from the ground, with helmets of fallen soldiers scattered around the base.
The monument has become one of Baghdad's most photographed landmarks. Visitors can stand in specific locations to create the illusion that they are holding the swords. The Victory Arch is near the Monument to the Unknown Soldier.
A brief summary to Victory Arch
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