The Sumerian Gallery tour in the National Museum of Iraq offers visitors a unique chance to explore the rich history of Sumer, one of the world's earliest civilizations. This in-depth guided tour takes guests through an extensive collection of artifacts that date back to the Ubaid period through the Uruk and Early Dynastic periods. The artifacts tell a story of the development of writing, trade, and governance. You'll see the famous Warka Vase, one of the earliest known examples of narrative relief, and cuneiform tablets – the ancient writing system of Mesopotamia. Participants will gain insights into the day-to-day life of the Sumerians, including their intricate jewelry, religious practices, and architectural achievements.
The Assyrian Reliefs Exploration is an activity designed for history and art lovers. This tour showcases the grandiosity of the Assyrian Empire through its massive stone reliefs and sculptures. From the winged bull Lamassu to wall reliefs depicting hunting scenes, battles, and royal rituals, the museum's Assyrian collection is among the most comprehensive in the world. The detailed reliefs provide insights into Assyrian art, warfare, mythology, and the empire's interactions with other ancient cultures. Visitors can spend around an hour with a museum guide who will unravel the stories behind each piece and explain the importance of the symbols and inscriptions on the limestone walls.
For those who are fascinated by Islamic art, the National Museum of Iraq's Islamic Art and Manuscript Workshop offers a captivating experience. This workshop delves into the work of Islamic artists and scribes that shaped the aesthetic of the region for centuries. Participants can observe a vast collection of Islamic manuscripts, pottery, metalwork, and textiles. The museum's knowledgeable staff provide historical context about the development of Islamic art from the rise of Islam to the Ottoman period. Visitors will also learn about calligraphy, geometric designs, and the artistic representation of society through different eras. The workshop is both educational and interactive; it also provides participants with an opportunity to try their hand at traditional calligraphy.
The Babylonian Civilization Retrospective is a curated walkthrough of one of history's most influential civilizations. The National Museum of Iraq houses an impressive collection of Babylonian artifacts, including the famous Stele of Hammurabi with its ancient code of law carved in stone. Museum guides will share insights into Babylon's contributions to mathematics, astronomy, and literature, as well as the empire's monumental architectural projects such as the Hanging Gardens, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Through this tour, visitors will get to appreciate the significance of Babylonian culture and its extensive trade networks that reached far across the Middle East.
The National Museum of Iraq presents an exclusive session on ancient coins and the economy, revealing pivotal moments in the economic history of Mesopotamia. Aside from displaying various coin collections from different regions and times, the session provides an understanding of the trade systems, barter economies, and the introduction of monetary currencies that revolutionized how business was conducted. The collection of coins spans from the earliest forms of currency to intricate Islamic coins with beautiful calligraphy. Museum experts discuss the evolution of coins, how they were made, and their significance in shaping Mesopotamian and Islamic civilizations. This activity is a must for numismatists and economic history enthusiasts.
Mesopotamian Pottery Crafting is an interactive activity suitable for families and individuals interested in the ancient art of pottery. Participants in this hands-on workshop will learn about various pottery techniques used by the ancient Mesopotamians, including coiling and wheel throwing. Expert potters guide the workshop attendees in crafting their own pieces using traditional methods and tools. This immersion into the craft also features an exhibit of ancient Mesopotamian ceramics, demonstrating the history and evolution of this timeless art form. The finished products can be taken home as mementos of the museum experience.
This activity provides an in-depth look at the craftsmanship and cultural significance of ancient jewelry found in the lands of modern-day Iraq. It focuses specifically on the artistry and symbolism behind the adornments worn by various civilizations that once thrived in Mesopotamia. Museum-goers will see intricate gold and silver work, precious stones, and other materials used to create stunning pieces that signified status, wealth, and protection. The guided tour not only showcases remarkable artifacts but also discusses the techniques of ancient jewelry makers and the trade routes that influenced the diversity of styles. This journey through time sheds light on the social and religious contexts of these personal ornaments.
The Iraqi Archaeology Today seminar is an intriguing activity for anyone eager to understand the current state of archaeology in Iraq. With a focus on modern methods and discoveries, the seminar brings together museum curators, local archaeologists, and occasionally international experts to discuss ongoing excavations and research. Participants will learn about the challenges and triumphs in the field of archaeology within Iraq, the impact of conflict on historical sites, preservation efforts, and the importance of these findings to Iraqi national identity and heritage. Through presentations, discussions, and Q&A sessions, attendees gain a contemporary perspective on the continuing story of Mesopotamian archaeology.
The Epic of Gilgamesh is perhaps the most renowned literary work from ancient Mesopotamia, and the National Museum of Iraq offers a dramatic reading of this ancient epic poem. Sit back and listen as the museum's storytellers bring to life the adventures of Gilgamesh, the legendary king of Uruk, and his quest for immortality. The reading is performed in an atmospheric setting, surrounded by artifacts from the era. The epic's themes of friendship, heroism, and the human condition resonate as powerfully today as they did over 4,000 years ago. This activity allows visitors to connect with the ancient world through its literature, providing a memorable cultural experience.
The Treasures of Nimrud Display showcases the breathtaking finds from the royal tombs of Nimrud, an ancient Assyrian city. Witness the opulent jewelry, exquisite ivories, and ceremonial artifacts that testify to the wealth and artistry of the Assyrian Empire. Visitors can marvel at the famous Nimrud gold, including a gold crown and delicate gold earrings that highlight the intricate craftsmanship of Assyrian goldsmiths. This display provides not only a glimpse into the royal lives of the Assyrian kings and queens but also illustrates the significance of Nimrud as a political and cultural center. Museum guides offer detailed narratives about the discovery of these treasures and their restoration after recent conflicts.
Religious Places (10)
Historical Places (10)
Museums (7)
Lakes (1)
