Al Başrah, Iraq
Region: Al Başrah Governorate
Geographic Coordinates: 30.515000, 47.810000
Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 45.0°C (50°F to 113°F)
Population: 1326564
Language: Arabic
Al Başrah, Also known as Basra, Is a city in southern Iraq located on the Shatt al-Arab river near the Persian Gulf. It is the third-largest city in Iraq and has a population of approximately 2.5 million people. The city has a rich history dating back to ancient times and was once an important center for trade and commerce. One of the most notable features of Al Başrah is its location on the Shatt al-Arab river, Which provides access to the Persian Gulf and makes it an important port city.
The port plays a vital role in importing and exporting goods to neighboring countries like Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Iran, And Bahrain. The city’s economy relies heavily on oil production as it houses one of Iraq’s largest oil refineries. In addition to oil production, Al Başrah has several other industries including agriculture, Fishing, And manufacturing. Al Başrah is also home to several cultural landmarks that attract tourists from all over the world. One such landmark is the Great Mosque of Basra which dates back to 639 AD when Islam was first introduced into Iraq.
The mosque has undergone several renovations over time but still retains its original design with intricate carvings adorning its walls. Another popular tourist attraction in Al Başrah is the Basra Museum which houses artifacts dating back thousands of years from various civilizations that once inhabited Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq). Visitors can see ancient pottery, Jewelry, Weapons as well as manuscripts written in cuneiform script – one of humanity’s earliest forms of writing.
Despite being a bustling metropolis with modern amenities like shopping malls and high-rise buildings dotting its skyline; Al Başrah still retains much of its traditional charm with narrow alleys lined with shops selling spices or handmade crafts made by local artisans. However, Like many cities in Iraq; Al Başrah has faced numerous challenges including political instability due to ongoing conflicts between different factions within the country. The city has also witnessed several terrorist attacks in recent years, Which have had a significant impact on its economy and tourism industry.
Al Başrah is a city that is rich in history and culture with much to offer visitors who are interested in exploring Iraq’s past and present. Despite the challenges it faces, It remains an important center for trade and commerce in the region with a diverse economy that includes oil production, Agriculture, Fishing, And manufacturing.
- Basra Grand Mosque: This is one of the largest and oldest mosques in Iraq, dating back to the 7th century.
- Basra Corniche: This is a beautiful promenade along the Shatt al-Arab river with parks, restaurants, cafes, and shops.
- Basra Museum: The museum houses a collection of ancient artifacts from Mesopotamia including pottery, statues, and cuneiform tablets.
- Shaheed Monument: A towering monument dedicated to those who lost their lives during the Iran-Iraq war.
- Al-Maqal Port: A historic port that dates back to 5000 BC which was once used for trade between Mesopotamia and India.
- Ziggurat of Ur: Located near Al Başrah city, this ancient temple dates back to 2100 BC and is one of Iraq’s most famous archaeological sites.
- Marshlands of Mesopotamia: These wetlands are home to rare wildlife species such as water buffalo, otters, and flamingos.
- Basra Sports City Stadium: A modern stadium that hosts football matches and other sports events in Al-Basrah Governorate.
- Oil and gas
- Agriculture
- Fishing
- Construction
- Retail trade
- Transportation
The major industries and businesses in Al Başrah, Iraq include:
- Oil and gas: The city is home to several oil refineries and petrochemical plants that produce crude oil and natural gas.
- Agriculture: Crops such as wheat, barley, dates, citrus fruits are grown in the region.
- Fishing: Due to the city’s location on the Persian Gulf, fishing is another important industry.
- Construction: Companies are active in building infrastructure projects such as roads and bridges.
- Retail trade: Includes shops selling clothing items or household goods.
- Transportation: Services include taxis or buses that transport people around the city or across Iraq’s borders with neighboring countries like Kuwait or Saudi Arabia.
- The ancient city of Basra was established in the 7th century by Umar ibn al-Khattab, an Arab conqueror.
- During the Abbasid Caliphate, Basra became a hub for Islamic education and scholarship.
- In 1258, Mongol invaders led by Hulagu Khan sacked the city.
- British troops invaded Basra during World War I in 1914 and occupied it until Iraq gained independence in 1932.
- Basra suffered severe damage from heavy bombing during the Iran-Iraq war (1980-1988).
- Saddam Hussein utilized Basra as a military base during both Gulf Wars (1990-1991) and (2003).
- Notable individuals from Al Başrah include Abu Nuwas (poet), Ali al-Sistani (Shia cleric), Nizar Qabbani (poet), and Abd al-Aziz al-Hakim (Shia politician).
- The Al-Basrah Oil Terminal is among Iraq’s most critical oil export facilities located in the Persian Gulf off the coast of Basra province.
- In recent times, political instability, violence from extremist groups such as ISIS, corruption scandals involving local officials, and protests against poor living conditions and lack of essential services such as electricity and clean water have affected Al Başrah significantly.
- Basra Museum – a museum showcasing the region’s history and culture.
- Basra International Stadium – a sports stadium that hosts various events and matches.
- Al-Mina’a Stadium – another popular sports stadium in the city.
- The Great Mosque of Basra – a historic mosque with beautiful architecture and design.
- The Corniche – a scenic waterfront area with restaurants, cafes, and shops.
- Shaheed Monument – a monument dedicated to fallen soldiers and victims of war.
- Basra War Cemetery – honoring Commonwealth soldiers who died during World War II.
- Al-Maqal Port – an important commercial port on the Shatt al-Arab river.
- Arbaeen: A religious event commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain.
- Ashura: Another religious festival that marks the death anniversary of Imam Hussain.
- Eid al-Fitr: A three-day celebration marking the end of Ramadan.
- Eid al-Adha: A four-day Islamic festival celebrating Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son for God.
- Mesopotamian Marshes Festival: Celebrated in September, this festival showcases traditional music, dance, and food from the Mesopotamian Marshes region.
- Baghdad International Film Festival: Held annually in October or November, this event features films from Iraq and around the world.
- Basra Book Fair: An annual book fair held in Al Başrah where publishers showcase their latest books and authors meet with readers.
Please note that these events might have been discontinued or postponed due to ongoing political instability and security concerns in Iraq.
- Masgouf is a traditional Iraqi dish of grilled fish that is marinated with spices and served with rice.
- Kubba is a deep-fried dumpling filled with spiced minced meat or vegetables.
- Fattoush is a salad made with fresh vegetables, herbs, and crispy pita bread.
- Al-Marsa Restaurant is known for its seafood dishes such as masgouf and fried shrimp.
- Dar Al-Salam Restaurant serves traditional Iraqi dishes including kubba and biryani.
- Al-Turath Restaurant offers a variety of Middle Eastern dishes like shawarma, hummus, falafel, etc.
- Al-Bashaer Restaurant specializes in grilled meats like kebabs and lamb chops.
- Shanasheel Al-Basra Restaurant is known for its authentic Basra-style cuisine such as samak al-mahshi (stuffed fish) and bamia (okra stew).
