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Bab Baghdad Al-Wastany: A Glimpse into Baghdad's Past

Explore Baghdad's only remaining gate, a historical landmark showcasing Abbasid-era architecture and the city's rich heritage.

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Bab Baghdad Al-Wastany, also known as Bab al-Dha'fariyya or the Middle Gate, stands as the sole surviving gate of Baghdad, Iraq. Dating back to the Abbasid era, it offers a tangible link to the city's rich history and architectural heritage.

A brief summary to Bab Baghdad Al-Wastany

  • 9C23+QM2، طريق القاسم بن الحسن السريع, Baghdad, Shaikh Omar, Baghdad Governorate, IQ

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architectural details and surrounding historical context.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Mausoleum of Umar al-Suhrawardi for a deeper understanding of the area's significance.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and respect local customs when visiting historical sites in Baghdad.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Mausoleum of Umar al-Suhrawardi, the gate is a short walk away. Head east, following the road, and the gate will be visible on your right. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    While Baghdad has a public transportation system including buses, it may not be reliable or have direct routes to Bab Baghdad Al-Wastany. Check local bus routes and schedules for the most up-to-date information. Purchase tickets at kiosks before boarding. Fares are inexpensive.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Baghdad. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. From central Baghdad, a taxi ride to Bab Baghdad Al-Wastany will likely cost between 12,000 to 25,000 IQD, depending on traffic and distance. Ride-sharing apps like Careem are also becoming popular.

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Discover more about Bab Baghdad Al-Wastany

Bab Baghdad Al-Wastany, meaning "The Middle Gate," also known as Bab al-Dha'fariyya (Gate of the Nail) or Bab Khorasan, is the last remaining gate of the city of Baghdad. Constructed during the Abbasid Caliphate, specifically during the reign of Caliph al-Mustazhir (1094–1118 CE) and later expanded in 1220 by Caliph al-Nasir, the gate was part of a network of walls and fortifications designed to protect the city from invaders. Located on the eastern side of the city, near the Mausoleum of Umar al-Suhrawardi and the Al-Wardiyya Cemetery, Bab al-Wastany offers a glimpse into Baghdad's rich past. The gate's architecture is reminiscent of the gates of the Round City built by Caliph al-Mansur, featuring a curved military entrance. It includes a 14.5-meter tall cylindrical tower with a door topped with an arch. The gate was built using bricks and gypsum mortar, materials commonly used in Iraqi architecture known for their resilience. In the 20th century, Bab al-Wastany underwent restoration. Today, it can be viewed from the Muhammad al-Qassim Highway. While the gate has witnessed periods of neglect and damage, including the uprooting of surrounding graves and mosques to build tourism infrastructure, it remains a significant historical landmark in Baghdad, a testament to the city's enduring legacy.

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