Al Miqdādīyah, Iraq
Region: Al Diyala Governorate
Geographic Coordinates: 33.978600, 44.936900
Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 50.0°C (50°F to 122°F)
Climate: Seasonal and climatic patterns in Al Miqdādīyah, Iraq include hot and dry summers, mild winters with occasional rainfall, and dust storms during the spring months.
Population: 155968
Language: Arabic
Al Miqdādīyah is a small city situated in the Diyala Governorate of Iraq, Which is approximately 80 kilometers northeast of Baghdad. The city has a fascinating history that dates back to the ancient Mesopotamian period. Its strategic location on the banks of the Diyala River made it an essential center for trade and commerce. Currently, Al Miqdādīyah has a population of around 50, 000 people and serves as an agricultural and industrial hub in the region. The city’s primary products are dates, Wheat, Barley, And other crops. Additionally, There are several factories that produce cement and other building materials.
Despite its small size, Al Miqdādīyah played a significant role during recent Iraqi history as it was one of the key battlegrounds between US forces and insurgents during Iraq War from 2003-2011. Unfortunately even today it remains an area of concern due to ongoing violence from various militant groups. The infrastructure within Al-Miqdadiah has been severely damaged by years of conflict; many buildings have been destroyed or damaged by bombings or gunfire. However, There are efforts underway to rebuild homes and businesses that were affected by war.
In terms of education facilities available within Al-Miqdadiah; there are several primary schools along with one secondary school which caters up until grade twelve level education within this region along with medical facilities including hospitals such as General Hospital which provides patients with access to basic healthcare needs. Despite facing ongoing challenges here; residents remain optimistic about their future prospects alongside their dedication towards rebuilding their community into something better than before despite all odds stacked against them’.
- The Great Mosque of Al-Miqdadiyah: A beautiful mosque that dates back to the Abbasid era.
- The Citadel of Al-Miqdadiyah: A historic fortress built during the reign of the Abbasids.
- The Tigris River: A major river in Iraq that flows through Al-Miqdadiyah and offers scenic views.
- The Palm Grove of Al-Miqdadiyah: A lush oasis filled with date palms and other vegetation.
- The Qal’at Saladin Museum: A museum dedicated to the history and culture of Saladin, a famous Muslim military leader who was born near Al-Miqdadiyah.
- The Shrine of Imam Ali al-Naqi: A holy site for Shia Muslims that is located near Al-Miqdadiyah.
- Buhruz Castle: An ancient castle located on a hill overlooking the town of Buhruz, which is just outside of Al-Miqdadiyah.
- Lake Hamrin: A large lake located near Al-Miqdadiah that offers fishing and boating opportunities for visitors.
- Hamrin Dam: One Of Iraq’s largest dams located on Tigris River providing water supply, electricity generation, flood control & irrigation.
- Battle of Miqdadiyah: The Battle of Miqdadiyah was fought between the US Army and Iraqi insurgents in November 2003 during the Iraq War.
- Sheikh Abdullah al-Miqdadi: Sheikh Abdullah al-Miqdadi was a prominent Sunni Muslim cleric who lived in Al Miqdādīyah. He was known for his opposition to Saddam Hussein’s regime and his support for democracy.
- Uday Hussein: Uday Hussein, the son of former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein, had a palace in Al Miqdādīyah where he reportedly kept exotic animals.
- Abu Musab al-Zarqawi: Abu Musab al-Zarqawi was an infamous terrorist who led Al-Qaeda in Iraq (AQI) during the Iraq War. He was responsible for numerous attacks on US forces and civilians, including a bombing in Al Miqdādīyah that killed 12 people in 2004.
- Operation Phantom Phoenix: Operation Phantom Phoenix was a joint US-Iraqi military operation that targeted AQI leaders in Al Miqdādīyah and other areas of Diyala province in 2008.
Overall, while there are not many significant historical events or notable figures associated with Al Miqdādīyah specifically, its location within Diyala province has made it an important site for military operations during times of conflict such as the Iraq War.
- Al-Miqdadiya Museum: This museum showcases ancient artifacts and historical items from the region.
- The Great Mosque of Al-Miqdadiya: A stunning mosque with a unique architectural design that is definitely worth visiting.
- The Shrine of Sheikh Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani: A religious site dedicated to the famous Sufi saint Sheikh Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani.
- The Tomb of Imam Ali bin Abi Talib: This sacred burial site is located in nearby Najaf and is an important pilgrimage destination for Shia Muslims.
- Samarra Archaeological City: This ancient city, situated approximately 50 kilometers from Al-Miqdadiya, boasts several historical sites including the Great Mosque of Samarra and the Malwiya Tower.
- Diyala Bridge Monument: This monument commemorates the bravery of Iraqi soldiers who fought against ISIS during their occupation of Mosul between 2014-15.
- Maqam Ibrahim Khalil Mosque: Located in nearby Kirkuk, this mosque is believed to have been built on top of Prophet Abraham’s birthplace and attracts many visitors every year.
- Arbaeen Pilgrimage – A religious festival observed by Shia Muslims to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain.
- Eid al-Fitr – A three-day festival celebrated at the end of Ramadan.
- Ashura – A significant day for Shia Muslims commemorating the death of Imam Hussain.
- Baghdad International Film Festival – An annual film festival held in Baghdad showcasing international films.
- Babylon International Festival – An annual music and arts festival held in Babylon that features traditional Iraqi music and dance performances.
- National Day Celebrations – Celebrated on October 3rd every year to commemorate Iraq’s independence from British rule.
- Nowruz (New Year) – Celebrated by Kurdish people on March 21st every year with traditional food, dance, and music performances.
Please note that these are just some examples of cultural events happening across Iraq, but there may be specific events or festivals unique to Al Miqdadiyah that are not listed here.
- Masgouf: A traditional Iraqi dish made with grilled fish.
- Tashreeb: A soup-based dish made with lamb or chicken and bread.
- Kabab: Grilled meat skewers served with rice and vegetables.
- Al Khatoun Restaurant: A popular restaurant that serves a variety of Iraqi dishes including masgouf, kabab, and tashreeb.
- Al Rehab Restaurant: Another popular restaurant that serves traditional Iraqi cuisine such as falafel, shawarma, and grilled meats.
- Al Hanaa Restaurant: Known for its delicious kebab platters and fresh salads.
- Qasr Baghdad Restaurant: Offers a wide selection of Middle Eastern dishes including hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh salad etc
- Dar Es Salaam Grill House: is famous for its grilled chicken marinated in special spices served with rice or fries
- Al-Miqdadiah Park: This is a public park located in the heart of Al Miqdādīyah city. It features playgrounds, walking paths, picnic areas, and sports fields.
- Tigris River: The Tigris River runs through Al Miqdādīyah and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities.
- Local Sports Clubs: There are several local sports clubs in Al Miqdādīyah that offer recreational activities such as soccer, basketball, volleyball and more.
- Hiking Trails: The surrounding hills of Al Miqdādīyah offer scenic hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of the area.
- Cultural Festivals: Throughout the year there are various cultural festivals held in nearby cities that feature music performances or traditional dances which are open to visitors from all over Iraq.
