The Mustansiriya School
The Mustansiriya School was established during the reign of the Abbasid Caliph Al-Mustansir Billah. Its construction spanned six years, from 625 to 631 AH. This institution is regarded as one of the oldest schools still standing today. It serves as a university that teaches the four major schools of Islamic jurisprudence. The original complex also included a hospital, a pharmacy, and a library, which is believed to have been destroyed by the Mongols during their invasion of Baghdad. Currently, after extensive renovations, the Mustansiriya School has been transformed into a museum dedicated to Islamic culture and art, reflecting the grandeur of Islamic history.
The Abbasid Palace
The Abbasid Palace was erected in a picturesque location overlooking the Tigris River in Baghdad. It stands as the last palace of the Abbasids in the city. Although there are differing scholarly opinions regarding its construction date, some sources suggest it was built during the reign of Caliph Al-Nasir li-Din Allah, while others indicate that the architectural style likely corresponds to the era of Caliph Al-Mustansir. Studies conducted on the palace have indicated that it may have functioned as an educational institution rather than simply as a royal palace.
City of Babylon
The historic city of Babylon, one of the most renowned ancient archaeological sites, was founded around 2300 BC. It is located approximately 83.69 kilometers south of Baghdad. This civilization is among the earliest in Mesopotamia, serving as a significant center for literature, science, and the arts. Babylon is famous for its substantial and remarkable archaeological remains, including the Hanging Gardens, which are considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The city was fortified with massive walls that attracted people from all corners of the globe, establishing it as one of the most powerful cities in the world.
The Ziggurat of Ur
The Ziggurat was a stepped pyramid-shaped temple and one of the most prominent landmarks in ancient Mesopotamian cities. The Ziggurat of Ur is among the most famous ziggurats known in Iraq, with its construction dating back to approximately the 21st century BC. It was built by King Ur-Nammu and served the purpose of facilitating agricultural trade. At its summit, a temple was erected to honor the city’s patron deity, Nanna.