Uruk: Cradle of Civilization
Discover Uruk, the ancient Mesopotamian city and cradle of civilization, where writing and monumental architecture were born.
Explore the ruins of Uruk, one of the oldest and most influential cities in ancient Mesopotamia, located in present-day Iraq. Discover the birthplace of writing, monumental architecture, and complex governance in this once-thriving Sumerian center.
A brief summary to Uruk
- العميه, Al Muthanna Governorate, IQ
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves a fair amount of walking over uneven terrain.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a deeper understanding of the historical significance of the ruins.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities may be limited at the site.
- Respect the site by not climbing on ruins or disturbing the archaeological areas.
Getting There
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Car
If driving from Baghdad, head south on the highway towards Al-Muthanna Governorate. The journey is approximately 288 km and takes around 3 hours and 14 minutes. Upon arrival in Al-Muthanna, follow local signs to Uruk. Ensure you have appropriate permits, as checkpoints may require them. Expect to pay around $14-20 for fuel.
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Public Transport
To reach Uruk via public transport from Baghdad, take a bus to Samawah, the capital of Al-Muthanna Governorate. From Samawah, hire a taxi to Uruk. Be prepared for checkpoints and potential security escorts. The bus fare from Baghdad to Samawah is approximately 5,000-8,000 IQD. The taxi fare from Samawah to Uruk should be negotiated, but expect to pay around 15,000-25,000 IQD.
Discover more about Uruk
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alssiyagh Square
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Tell Khaiber
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Tell Al Ubaid
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A tour guide translator
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Shatt Akbar
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Nasiriyah Central Prison
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Tall Murawwiḩ
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Al Habobi Square
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Great Prophet mosque (r)
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Tell Al-Mzaerir
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Unmissable attractions to see
Aluti Park
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Great Ziggurat of Ur
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Dub lal makh temple معبد دي لال ماخ
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Ennigaldi-Nanna's Museum
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Ur
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Muq's house
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Nasiriyah Museum
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Tell Eridu Archaeological Site UNESCO
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Eridu, Sumeria
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Al-Haboubi Square
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Tell al'arab
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Essential places to dine
Musaffer Sir
33.1 km
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Haidari Restaurant
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Baghdad Resturant
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Subway pizza
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Food land
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Al Hassanian Restaurant 2
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De Baron Restaurant
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Experience authentic Iraqi cuisine at De Baron Restaurant in Samawah - where every dish tells a story.
GRAFFITI BURGER SAMAWA
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eat&go samawh
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Arz lebanon International Restaurant
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مأكولات جود Jood
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Mandi Palace Restaurant
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Laimoona Restaurant and Grills
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Kahramana Restaurant
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Aghati Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ماكسي مول Maximall Samawah
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Covered Market LIMITED
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دبي مول السماوة Dubai Mall
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مجموعة الوسام التجارية 1 للأجهزة المنزلية الكهربائية و الألكترونية
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Samawa Host
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Alma boutique
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ALMASA الماسة للكيك والهدايا والقرطاسية والألعاب
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Al-Said market
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Golden Palace
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MARKET ASHRAF
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Ea Nasir's Copper Shop
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Shrooq gallery
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Karim Al-Awadi Exhibition for the sale of electric household
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Jawadain compound
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Fruit and vegetable store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Mutanabi Restaurant
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Cafeteria Al Shaib
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The Rose Restaurant
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ماما روتي العراق - Mama Roti Iraq
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Ghost burger
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Nbb
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6 Pazzi
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Point
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The Big Tea Bar
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