Best Landmarks in Southern Iraq
Planning a trip to Southern Iraq? Discover the best landmarks in Southern Iraq with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best landmarks in Southern Iraq
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- A–Z
48 landmarks
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Castle4.4★14,870 reviews
Erbil Citadel
The Erbil Citadel, also known as Qalat, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historic tell in the heart of Erbil, Iraqi Kurdistan. Rising 82 to 105 feet (25 to 32 meters) above the surrounding plain, it's believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, with evidence of occupation possibly dating back to the 5th millennium BC.
Daily 9:00–19:00
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State park4.1★14,063 reviews
Al-Zawraa Park
Al-Zawraa Park, located in the heart of Baghdad, is a sprawling green space offering a respite from the city's hustle and bustle. Featuring gardens, a zoo, amusement park rides, and a lake, it's a popular destination for families and individuals seeking relaxation and recreation. The park stands as a symbol of resilience and normalcy in a city that has experienced considerable conflict.
Daily 9:00–23:00
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Park4.4★9,185 reviews
Samî Abdulrahman Park
Sami Abdulrahman Park, located in Erbil, is one of the largest parks in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Named after a Kurdish politician who died in a 2004 terrorist attack, the park offers a peaceful retreat with green spaces, walking paths, lakes, playgrounds, and sports facilities. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, providing a space for leisure, recreation, and community events.
Daily 6:00–24:00
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Park4.1★9,309 reviews
Baghdad Island Park
Baghdad Island Park, located in the Al-Fahama district, is a large green space on the Tigris River, offering a peaceful retreat from Baghdad's urban bustle. With gardens, walking paths, picnic spots, playgrounds, and restaurants, it's a popular destination for families and tourists alike.
Daily 8:30–23:00
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Castle4.2★3,473 reviews
Kirkuk Citadel
The Kirkuk Citadel, the oldest part of the city, stands as a testament to Kirkuk's rich history. Rising 40 meters above the Khasa River, this ancient structure has been a strategic point for various empires, offering visitors a glimpse into Iraq's diverse past.
Open 24 hours
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Historical landmark4.4★2,747 reviews
Alqamae Tributary Of Furat
The Alqamae Tributary of the Furat River in Karbala, Iraq, holds deep historical and religious significance, particularly for Shia Muslims. It is associated with the Battle of Karbala, where al-'Abbas b. 'Ali was martyred while trying to get water. Today, it offers visitors a place for reflection amidst tranquil surroundings.
Open 24 hours
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City park4.2★2,543 reviews
Shanadar Park
Shanadar Park, located in the heart of Erbil, is a popular recreational and tourist destination. This community park features lawns, a large lake, a cable car, green spaces, walking and bicycle paths, and various restaurants and cafes. It's a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
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Resort hotel4.3★1,640 reviews
Korek Mountain Resort
Nestled in the Erbil Governorate, Korek Mountain Resort offers a luxurious escape into the heart of Iraqi Kurdistan. This 5-star resort provides stunning mountain views, diverse recreational activities, and a unique cultural experience, making it a premier destination for both locals and tourists.
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Memorial4.5★1,332 reviews
Martyr Monument
The Martyr Monument in Baghdad is a poignant memorial to Iraqi soldiers who died in the Iran-Iraq War. Its iconic design, featuring two split turquoise domes, houses a museum and reflects a deep sense of national identity and sacrifice.
Mon–Sat 8:00–15:00 · Sun 8:00–23:00
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Monument4.5★1,212 reviews
Saving Iraqi Culture Monument
The Saving Iraqi Culture Monument in Baghdad is a powerful symbol of resilience, representing the ongoing efforts to preserve Iraq's rich cultural heritage amidst conflict and destruction. Designed by Mohammed Ghani Hikmat, it features a broken cylinder seal supported by hands, signifying the collective effort to prevent cultural collapse.
Open 24 hours
Great Ziggurat of Ur
The Great Ziggurat of Ur, located near Nasiriyah in present-day Iraq, is a remarkably well-preserved Neo-Sumerian ziggurat dating back to the 21st century BC. Built by King Ur-Nammu and completed by his son King Shulgi, it stands as a testament to the architectural and religious significance of ancient Mesopotamia, dedicated to the moon god Nanna.
Daily 6:00–18:00
Tahrir Monument
The Tahrir Monument, located in Baghdad's Tahrir Square (Liberation Square), commemorates Iraq's declaration of independence. Designed by Jawad Saleem and completed in 1961, the monument features bronze figures on a travertine wall, depicting events from the 14 July Revolution and referencing ancient Mesopotamian art. It stands as a powerful symbol of the Iraqi people's struggle for freedom and unity.
Open 24 hours
Chami Razan
Chami Razan Park, nestled in Dokan within the Sulaymaniyah Governorate, offers a serene natural retreat with rolling hills and lush landscapes. Ideal for leisurely strolls, picnics, and hiking, it provides a tranquil escape from city life.
Open 24 hours
Al-Ukhaidir Fortress
Al-Ukhaidir Fortress, located approximately 50 km south of Karbala, Iraq, is a large, rectangular fortress dating back to 775 AD. Built during the Abbasid Caliphate, it showcases unique defensive architecture and stands as a testament to the era's grandeur.
Daily 9:00–18:00
Dukan Lake
Dukan Lake, the largest lake in Iraqi Kurdistan, offers stunning natural beauty and a tranquil escape. Formed by the Dukan Dam on the Little Zab River, it's surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation.
Sherwana Castle قەڵای شێروانە
Sherwana Castle, located in Kalar, Iraqi Kurdistan, is a historic fortress built in the 19th century by Mohamed Pasha Jaff, a prominent Kurdish leader. Once the administrative center and residence of the Jaff family, it stands as a symbol of Kurdish history and a popular tourist destination.
Victory Arch
The Victory Arch, also known as the Swords of Qādisīyah, is a striking monument in Baghdad consisting of two arches, each formed by a pair of massive hands holding crossed swords. Built to commemorate the Iran-Iraq War, it serves as a reminder of Iraq's history and resilience.
Open 24 hours
Rabban Hormizd Monastery
Founded in 640 AD, the Rabban Hormizd Monastery is a significant monastic site for both the Assyrian Church of the East and the Chaldean Catholic Church. Carved into the mountains near Alqosh, it offers a glimpse into the region's rich Christian history and provides stunning views of the Nineveh plains.
Daily 8:00–13:00, 14:00–18:00
Al-Mukhayam Shrine (Khayam Al Hussain AS)
Al-Mukhayam Shrine, also known as Khayam Al Hussain, marks the site where Imam Hussain and his family encamped during the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. Replica tents symbolize their suffering and sacrifice, offering a deeply spiritual experience for pilgrims.
Open 24 hours
Dur-Kurigalzu (Ziggurat at Aqar Quf)
Explore the ancient ziggurat of Dur-Kurigalzu, a 14th-century BC Mesopotamian monument near Baghdad. Built by the Kassite King Kurigalzu I, this historical landmark offers a glimpse into Babylonian architecture and religious practices.
Daily 8:00–17:00
Uruk
Explore the ruins of Uruk, one of the oldest and most influential cities in Mesopotamia, located in present-day Iraq. Discover the birthplace of writing, monumental architecture, and urban planning, and immerse yourself in the history of Sumerian civilization.
Archaeological Ziggurat of Aqarquf
The Archaeological Ziggurat of Aqarquf, located near Abu Ghraib, Iraq, is a well-preserved testament to ancient Mesopotamian architecture dating back to the 14th century BC. Built by the Kassite King Kurigalzu I, the ziggurat was dedicated to the god Enlil and served as the centerpiece of the city of Dur-Kurigalzu. Today, its imposing mud-brick structure offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history.
Mon–Thu 8:00–15:00 · Sat–Sun 8:00–15:00
Park map of Iraq
The Park map of Iraq, located on Mosul Road in Baghdad, offers a green oasis with recreational activities for families and individuals. Open daily, it provides a welcome escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Daily 10:00–22:00
Euphrates River
The Euphrates River, one of the most historically significant waterways in West Asia, flows through Turkey, Syria, and Iraq. As one of the two defining rivers of Mesopotamia, it was the birthplace of ancient civilizations like Sumer and Babylonia. Today, it remains a vital resource, though facing environmental challenges.
Abbasid Palace
The Abbasid Palace, located in Baghdad on the Al-Rusafa side near the Tigris River, stands as a remarkable testament to the Abbasid era. Dating back to the 12th century, this historical palace showcases intricate Islamic architecture and offers visitors a glimpse into Baghdad's rich cultural heritage.
Daily 9:00–13:00
Corniche of the Assyrians
The Corniche of the Assyrians is a scenic promenade along the Tigris River in Baghdad, offering a tranquil escape with lush greenery, cultural monuments, and vibrant city views. It's a place to relax, reflect, and experience Iraqi hospitality.
Open 24 hours
Ur
Explore the ancient city of Ur in present-day Iraq, a significant Sumerian city-state dating back to 3800 BC. Discover the impressive Ziggurat of Ur, royal tombs, and remnants of a once-thriving Mesopotamian center in Dhi Qar Governorate.
Dair Mar Elia
Dair Mar Elia, or the Monastery of Saint Elijah, was one of Iraq's oldest Christian monasteries, dating back to the 6th century. Located near Mosul, it stood as a symbol of resilience for the Christian community until its destruction by ISIS in 2014. While the site is currently inaccessible, it remains a poignant reminder of Iraq's rich cultural and religious heritage.
Allawi Southern
Allawi Southern is more than just a bus stop; it's a vibrant intersection in Baghdad, epitomizing the city's daily hustle and bustle. As a key transit hub, it connects various neighborhoods and offers an authentic glimpse into the daily life of Baghdad's locals.
Remains of Talsam gate
The Remains of Talsam Gate offer a glimpse into Baghdad's rich history. Though partially ruined, this ancient structure once served as a grand entrance to the city, showcasing the architectural ingenuity and cultural heritage of its time. Visiting the gate provides a unique opportunity to connect with the past and reflect on the centuries that have shaped Baghdad.
Open 24 hours
Tigris River
The Tigris River, flowing through the Duhok Governorate, is a historic waterway and one of Mesopotamia's two defining rivers. Originating in the Taurus Mountains of Turkey, it winds through Iraq, nurturing civilizations for millennia. Explore its banks to witness the region's natural beauty and historical depth.
Halamata cave
Halamata Cave, near Duhok, Iraq, features Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs dating back to 704-681 BC. Carved into a cliffside, the Maltai reliefs depict a procession linked to King Sennacherib's canal system, offering a glimpse into ancient Mesopotamian artistry and religious practices.
Open 24 hours
Confluence of Euphrates and Tigris
Witness the historic meeting of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers near Al Qurnah, Iraq, a site revered as the heart of ancient Mesopotamia. This geographical landmark marks the formation of the Shatt al-Arab and stands as a testament to the region's profound historical and cultural significance.
Eridu, Sumeria
Eridu, located in present-day Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq, is considered one of the oldest cities in the world and the earliest city in Mesopotamia. Founded around 5400 BC, it was a vital religious and political center for the Sumerians, serving as the home of the god Enki and a foundation for urban life, governance, and innovation.
Great Prophet mosque (r)
The Great Prophet Mosque, located in the Dhi Qar Governorate of Iraq, serves as a significant place of worship for the local community. While not widely known as a major tourist destination, it provides a glimpse into the religious life of the area.
Open 24 hours
Qasrij Area
Qasrij Area in Nineveh Governorate is a resilient Kurdish village with a rich history, having been a frontline during conflicts involving ISIS and Iraqi forces. It offers visitors a glimpse into Kurdish culture and the enduring spirit of its inhabitants.
Mon–Thu 8:00–18:00 · Sat–Sun 8:00–18:00
Anfal Monument
The Anfal Monument in Erbil stands as a solemn memorial to the victims of the Anfal campaign, a series of brutal attacks against the Kurdish people in the late 1980s. It serves as a reminder of resilience and the enduring spirit of the Kurdish people.
Where the Tigris and Euphrates meet
Witness the historic meeting of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers near Al-Qurnah, marking the formation of the Shatt al-Arab. This confluence is a significant geographical and historical landmark in Mesopotamia, the cradle of civilization.
Dinar Square
Dinar Square in Basrah, Iraq, is a vibrant public space and a testament to the city's history and culture. The square is home to the Iraqi Army Memorial, honoring the nation's armed forces, and provides a gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
Memorial 'Los 8 de Irak'
The Memorial 'Los 8 de Irak' in Latifiya, near Baghdad, commemorates the sacrifice of eight Spanish intelligence officers who lost their lives in 2003. It serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and tragedies of the Iraq War.
Sheikh Hadid water wheel
The Sheikh Hadid Water Wheel in Haditha, Iraq, stands as a testament to ancient engineering. This historic 'noria,' or water wheel, has served as a vital irrigation source for the region's agricultural lands for centuries, embodying the area's cultural heritage and the ingenuity of its people.
Tell Eridu Archaeological Site UNESCO
Explore Tell Eridu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iraq, believed to be one of the earliest cities in Mesopotamia. Discover the ancient ruins, including the Ziggurat of Enki, and delve into the history of Sumerian civilization dating back to the 5th millennium BCE.
الداير / جسر/ البوثابت
Located in the Al Fajr district of Dhi Qar Governorate, Al-Dair/Jeser/Al-Buthabat offers a peek into the everyday life of a rural Iraqi community. While not a major tourist destination, it provides an authentic experience for those seeking to understand the region beyond its historical sites.
العراق 2020
العراق 2020 appears to be a homeowners' association or community organization located in Al Anbar Governorate, Iraq. While specific details are limited, Al Anbar offers a blend of ancient history and natural landscapes, including the Euphrates River and vast desert expanses.
Great Hor
Great Hor, located in the Maysan Governorate of Iraq, is a significant wetland and part of the larger Mesopotamian Marshes. These marshes are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are known for their biodiversity and cultural importance to the Marsh Arabs.
Edén: confluencia del Tigris y el Eufrates
Witness the historic meeting of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers at Al-Qurnah, believed by some to be the site of the biblical Garden of Eden. This confluence marks the beginning of the Shatt al-Arab waterway and a place of immense historical and cultural significance.
Idu
Idu, located near Taqtaq in the Erbil Governorate, is an archaeological ruin and historical landmark. While specific details about Idu are scarce, its existence points to the rich history of the region, inviting exploration and reflection on civilizations past.
Tell al'arab
Tell al'Arab, located in the Dhi Qar Governorate of Iraq, is a historical landmark offering a glimpse into the region's rich Mesopotamian past. As an archaeological site, it represents an artificial mound formed by layers of accumulated settlements over centuries. While specific details about Tell al'Arab are limited, its existence points to the broader historical significance of the area.
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