Al-Salam Palace: A Symbol of Baghdad's Tumultuous History
Explore Al-Salam Palace in Baghdad, a landmark of Iraqi history, resilience, and architectural grandeur, reflecting a nation's journey towards peace.
Al-Salam Palace, or the Palace of Peace, is an iconic landmark in Baghdad, bearing witness to Iraq's intricate history and architectural grandeur. Constructed in the late 1990s under Saddam Hussein, the palace was intended as a symbol of his power, replacing the Republican Guard Headquarters destroyed in the Gulf War. The palace boasts approximately 1,000,000 square feet of floor space and features 200 rooms. Its interior is adorned with marble floors, granite walls, and ceilings embellished with hand-carved and inlaid hand-painted flowers. The architecture reflects a blend of traditional and modern influences. Once nicknamed the "Four Headed Palace" due to the four large busts of Saddam Hussein that adorned each corner, these busts have since been removed. In 2003, the U.S.-led Coalition forces took over Al-Salam Palace during the invasion of Iraq, causing significant damage from airstrike attacks. It served as a military headquarters known as Camp Prosperity. The palace was handed back to the Iraqi Government in 2012 and certified as a Republican Palace. Today, Al-Salam Palace symbolizes Iraq's journey towards peace and restoration. While the palace has been closed for tours, its exterior remains a captivating sight, offering a glimpse into Iraq's cultural heritage.
Local tips
- Check the current security situation and travel advisories before visiting.
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
- Dress modestly to respect the cultural significance of the location.
A brief summary to Al-Salam Palace
- لا توجد, Al-Salam Palace، شارع الكندي, Baghdad, Outer Karrada, Baghdad Governorate, IQ
Getting There
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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, depending on traffic. Ensure you agree on a fare with the driver before departing, as taxis in Baghdad are not always equipped with meters. A typical fare for a short trip within Baghdad is around IQD 23,325. Apps like Careem and Bolt are also available for booking taxis.
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Public Transport
While Baghdad has a public bus system, it may be unreliable. Microbuses or shared taxis heading towards Outer Karrada from Tahrir Square can drop you off at Al-Kindi Street. From there, walk straight for about 10 minutes to reach Al-Salam Palace. Bus fares are relatively low.
