The National Museum of Iraq in Al-Alawi, Baghdad: A Treasure of Mesopotamian History
The History of the National Museum of Iraq
The museum’s founding can be traced back to Gertrude Bell, who played a significant role in shaping modern Iraq. Her profound interest in archaeology and ancient civilizations led her to advocate for the preservation of Iraq’s heritage. Initially, the museum was located in the Qishla, a historic military barracks complex in Baghdad. As the collection expanded, Bell moved the museum to a new site on Al-Ma’moun Street in 1926, where it remained for several decades.
However, with the growth of the collection and the need for more space, the museum was relocated to its current building in the Al-Alawi district in 1966. The new location offered more room for exhibitions and allowed the museum to become a hub for the study and preservation of Iraq’s ancient history.
Today, the National Museum of Iraq is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of the Middle East. Despite suffering significant damage and loss during the looting of 2003, the museum has since been restored and reopened to the public, standing as a testament to Iraq’s enduring cultural legacy.
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Galleries of the National Museum of Iraq
The museum is divided into more than 20 galleries, each showcasing different periods and aspects of Iraq’s ancient civilizations. Here’s a brief overview of the major galleries:
1. The Sumerian Gallery
One of the most significant galleries, this section focuses on the Sumerian civilization, known as the earliest recorded civilization in human history. Visitors can explore ancient tools, sculptures, and cuneiform tablets that depict everyday life in ancient Mesopotamia.
2. The Akkadian Gallery
Featuring artifacts from the Akkadian Empire (circa 2334–2154 BC), this gallery includes statues, cylinder seals, and stelae that showcase the artistic and political achievements of the Akkadians, who are credited with creating the world’s first empire.
3. The Babylonian Gallery
This gallery highlights the grandeur of the Babylonian Empire, featuring relics from the reign of King Hammurabi and the famous Code of Hammurabi, one of the oldest sets of laws ever discovered.
4. The Assyrian Gallery
The Assyrian civilization is represented through intricate wall carvings, monumental statues, and artifacts that reflect the power and dominance of the Assyrian Empire. The famous Lamassu statues—winged human-headed bulls—are a standout exhibit in this section.
5. The Islamic Gallery
This section is dedicated to Iraq's rich Islamic history, showcasing artifacts from various Islamic dynasties that ruled over the region. Visitors can admire beautifully crafted ceramics, calligraphy, and Islamic architecture.
6. The Ubaid and Uruk Gallery
This gallery focuses on the prehistoric cultures of Iraq, such as the Ubaid and Uruk periods, which predate the Sumerians. Exhibits include pottery, figurines, and early examples of urban planning from the Uruk period.
7. The Hatra and Parthian Gallery
The Hatra and Parthian gallery highlights the artistic and architectural achievements of the Hatra kingdom, located in northern Iraq. The Parthian artifacts demonstrate the cultural exchange between East and West during ancient times.
8. The Cuneiform Writing Gallery
This gallery is dedicated to the evolution of writing, with a particular focus on cuneiform script, which originated in Mesopotamia. The section contains clay tablets, inscriptions, and seals that illustrate the development of one of the earliest forms of writing.
9. The Dilmun and Gulf Archaeology Gallery
This section showcases items from the Dilmun civilization and its connections with the Gulf region. It includes trade artifacts such as jewelry, pottery, and seals that highlight ancient trade routes.
10. The Islamic Science Gallery
Here, visitors can learn about the advances in science, medicine, and mathematics made by Islamic scholars. Artifacts include astronomical tools, medical instruments, and manuscripts that reflect the intellectual prowess of the Islamic Golden Age.
11. The Jewelry and Decorative Arts Gallery
This gallery offers a closer look at the craftsmanship of ancient civilizations, particularly their expertise in goldsmithing and jewelry-making. Intricate pieces of jewelry from the Sumerian and Babylonian periods are displayed.
12. The Coins and Seals Gallery
Featuring a collection of ancient coins and seals, this section demonstrates the economic and commercial history of the region. Visitors can see coins from the Greek, Roman, Islamic, and Persian periods, along with administrative seals used in commerce.
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The Museum Library
The National Museum of Iraq is not only a place for viewing artifacts but also a center for research and scholarship. The museum houses a vast library that contains thousands of books, journals, and archaeological research papers focused on the history of Iraq and the broader Middle East. Visitors, scholars, and students can explore topics related to archaeology, history, and cultural studies, providing a valuable resource for those looking to delve deeper into the region’s heritage.
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The Children's Museum
One of the unique aspects of the National Museum of Iraq is its Children's Museum, which opened in 1977. This section is designed to introduce young visitors to Iraq's history in an engaging and educational way. Through interactive exhibits, children can learn about ancient civilizations, how people lived in the past, and the importance of preserving history. This initiative reflects the museum's broader goal of fostering a love for cultural heritage in the next generation.
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Visitor Information
The National Museum of Iraq is open to the public throughout the week, except for Saturdays, making it accessible for tourists and locals alike. Ticket prices are reasonably set at 25,000 Iraqi Dinar, making it affordable for anyone interested in exploring the country's rich cultural and historical treasures.
Opening Hours:
Tuesday 9 AM–1 PM
Monday 9 AM–1 PM
Wednesday9 AM–1 PM
Thursday 9 AM–1 PM
Friday 9 AM–5 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
Location:
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The National Museum of Iraq is an essential stop for anyone interested in the history and culture of Iraq. From the vast collection of artifacts that span millennia to the educational resources available in the museum's library and children’s museum, it offers a comprehensive experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a history buff, a researcher, or a curious traveler, the National Museum of Iraq provides a unique and enriching glimpse into one of the world’s most ancient and storied regions.