Introduction:
Iraq, officially known as the Republic of Iraq, is a country located in Western Asia. The capital of Iraq is Baghdad, which is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Baghdad has a rich history, cultural heritage, and a lot to offer to tourists. In this article, we will explore the history, museums, heritage, geography, weather, economy, stock exchange, wealth, sports activities, and famous personalities of Baghdad, the capital of Iraq.
History:
Baghdad has a rich history that dates back to the Abbasid Caliphate in the 8th century. It was founded in 762 AD by the Abbasid caliph Al-Mansur, who wanted to create a new capital for the Islamic empire. Baghdad became a center of trade, culture, and learning, attracting scholars from all over the world. The city was ruled by various dynasties, including the Mongols, Ottoman Empire, and the British Empire. However, despite being invaded and occupied by foreign powers, Baghdad has managed to retain its unique cultural identity.
Museums and Heritage:
Baghdad has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its museums. The Iraqi Museum, located in Baghdad, is one of the largest and most important museums in the Middle East. It houses a collection of artifacts that date back to prehistoric times, including the famous statue of King Entemena, which is over 4,000 years old. The National Museum of Iraq, located in Baghdad, is another important museum that showcases the country's cultural heritage. It features a collection of ancient artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, and sculptures.
Geography and Weather:
Baghdad is located in the heart of Iraq, on the banks of the Tigris River. It has a hot desert climate, with temperatures reaching up to 50°C in the summer months. Winters are mild, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 15°C. The city is prone to sandstorms, which can occur at any time of the year. The Tigris River is an important source of water for the city, and it is used for irrigation and transportation.
Economy and Stock Exchange:
Baghdad has a developing economy, with a focus on oil production and exports. The city is home to the Baghdad Stock Exchange, which was established in 2004. The stock exchange has played a key role in the development of the Iraqi economy, and it has attracted foreign investors. However, the economy has been affected by political instability, corruption, and the ongoing war with ISIS.
Wealth and Sports Activities:
Baghdad has a diverse population, and there is a significant gap between the rich and the poor. The city is home to some of the wealthiest people in Iraq, who have made their fortunes in the oil industry. The city has a vibrant sports culture, with football being the most popular sport. The Al-Shaab Stadium, located in Baghdad, is one of the largest stadiums in Iraq, with a capacity of 45,000. The stadium has hosted several international football matches, including the 1986 FIFA World Cup qualifying game between Iraq and Australia.
Famous Personalities:
Baghdad has produced several famous personalities, including writers, poets, musicians, and politicians. One of the most famous poets from Baghdad is Al-Mutanabbi, who lived in the 10th century. He is considered one of the greatest poets in Arabic literature. Baghdad has also produced several famous musicians, including the legendary oud player Munir Bashir. In the political sphere, former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was born in the town of Al-Awja, near Tikrit, which is located north of Baghdad.
Memorable Football Results:
Football is the most popular sport in Iraq, and the national team has achieved some memorable results over the years. Here are five of the most memorable football results involving the Iraqi national team:
1. Iraq 1-0 Saudi Arabia (2007 Asian Cup Final): Iraq won their first and only Asian Cup title in 2007, defeating Saudi Arabia in the final. The victory provided a much-needed boost to the country, which was still recovering from the war.
2. Iraq 1-0 Iran (2015 Asian Cup Quarterfinal): Iraq defeated Iran in the quarterfinals of the 2015 Asian Cup, which was held in Australia. The victory was significant as it came at a time when the two countries were experiencing tensions.
3. Iraq 4-3 South Korea (2010 World Cup Qualifier): Iraq defeated South Korea in a thrilling World Cup qualifier in 2009. The victory helped Iraq qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
4. Iraq 3-1 Australia (2007 Asian Cup Semifinal): Iraq defeated Australia in the semifinals of the 2007 Asian Cup. The victory was significant as it came against the reigning champions and one of the strongest teams in the tournament.
5. Iraq 1-0 United Arab Emirates (2016 World Cup Qualifier): Iraqdefeated the United Arab Emirates in a crucial World Cup qualifier in 2015. The victory helped Iraq keep their hopes alive for qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
Conclusion:
Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, has a rich history, cultural heritage, and a lot to offer to tourists. The city has a diverse population, a developing economy, and a vibrant sports culture. Football is the most popular sport in Iraq, and the national team has achieved some memorable results over the years. Despite being invaded and occupied by foreign powers, Baghdad has managed to retain its unique cultural identity. The city is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and sports.
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