Iraq

Iraq - also known as the 'Cradle of Civilisation' - has in recent years been far from 'civil', but as the situation improves the country is witnessing a small renaissance in tourism. With some of the oldest historic and archaeological sites in the world, Iraq has so many treasures to amaze all who tread here. The people are welcoming, animated and industrious. The country has stunning mosques, pilgrimage shrines and a mix of religious sites. There are bustling bazaars, traditional souks and busy markets. The fabulous museums detail the diverse cultural melting pot of great empires that have held sway over millennia. The land between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers is the rich breadbasket of Iraq, while elsewhere is mostly desert. In the northern Kurdish area are the snowy mountains of the Zagros, with waterfalls and rolling hills. This pictorial guide aims to introduce this often-tragic country to a wider audience in the hope that very soon its stunning heritage, fabulous history and magnificent mountain areas will be open to all. Only then will the Iraqi people truly believe that their country has finally turned a page to a brighter future.