Introduction
The National Museum of Iraq is one of the oldest and most important cultural institutions in the Middle East, delivering a wealth of knowledge and insight into the history of the region. Located in Baghdad, Iraq, this museum is home to a vast collection of archaeological and cultural artifacts that range from prehistoric times to the present day. From ancient tablets inscribed with Sumerian scripts to the world-famous Winged Bulls of Nimrud, the National Museum of Iraq offers visitors an unparalleled glimpse into the past.
What to Expect at The National Museum of Iraq
The National Museum of Iraq is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in the Middle East, with an impressive collection of artifacts spanning thousands of years. The museum houses over 10,000 objects, including ancient jewelry, coins, sculptures, pottery, and more. The museum is divided into several galleries that focus on different eras and topics in Iraqi history, making it easy to explore the timeline of the region. Visitors can also explore the museum’s outdoor courtyard, which is home to a number of archaeological sites and artifacts from Iraq’s ancient civilizations.
The History of The National Museum of Iraq
The National Museum of Iraq was established in 1923 by the British Museum and the Iraqi government. In its early days, the museum was used as a repository for artifacts from archaeological excavations throughout the country. Over the years, the collection grew and the museum was expanded to include more galleries and a research center. In 2003, the museum was looted and damaged during the Iraq War, resulting in the loss of several thousand artifacts. However, the museum has since been restored and continues to display a wide range of artifacts from Iraq’s past.
Highlights of The National Museum of Iraq
The National Museum of Iraq is home to a number of important artifacts from Iraq’s past. Some of the most notable highlights include:
- The Lion of Babylon – This ancient sculpture is one of the most iconic artifacts in the museum. It was discovered in Babylon in 1876 and is believed to be from the 8th century BC.
- The Nimrud Gold – This collection of jewelry, coins, and other objects was discovered in Nimrud in the 1850s. It is believed to have belonged to King Ashurnasirpal II, who ruled Assyria from 883 to 859 BC.
- The Code of Hammurabi – This ancient set of laws is one of the most important documents in the world. It was discovered in Susa, Iran in 1901 and is believed to have been written in 1754 BC.
- The Winged Bulls of Nimrud – These impressive sculptures are one of the most famous artifacts in the museum. They were discovered in the ancient city of Nimrud and are believed to have been sculpted in the 8th century BC.
- The Ishtar Gate – This ornate gate was discovered in Babylon in 1899 and is believed to have been built in the 6th century BC. It is one of the most iconic artifacts in the museum.
Visiting The National Museum of Iraq
The National Museum of Iraq is open to the public from 9 AM to 5 PM Sunday through Thursday. The entrance fee is 5,000 Iraqi Dinars (about $4 USD). The museum also offers guided tours of the galleries and outdoor courtyard for an additional fee.
Conclusion
The National Museum of Iraq is one of the oldest and most important cultural institutions in the Middle East. With an impressive collection of artifacts spanning thousands of years, the museum offers visitors an unparalleled glimpse into the past. From ancient tablets inscribed with Sumerian scripts to the world-famous Winged Bulls of Nimrud, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of Iraq’s rich history and cultural heritage. Despite the challenges it faced during the Iraq War, the museum has persevered, and ongoing efforts continue to preserve and showcase the nation’s invaluable artifacts. A visit to the National Museum of Iraq is a journey through time, allowing visitors to connect with the ancient civilizations that have shaped this remarkable region.