Trip to Iraq: Religious and ethnic communities

Discover the highlights of this trip to Iraq

► Basra and southern Mesopotamia

We'll begin our trip to Iraq in Basra, a port city located on the banks of the Shatt Al Arab River. Here, we'll discover the elegant architectural style of the Shanasheel houses, stroll along the lively riverbank, and visit a date palm farm to understand the key role this fruit plays in the local economy. We'll also discover the flavours of the south with exquisite seafood typical of the region. Nearby is Qurna, where the Tigris and Euphrates rivers meet. Here, the legendary Adam's Tree, mentioned in biblical texts, awaits us. Later, we'll enter the spectacular Ahwar Marshes—a World Heritage Site—home to the "Marsh Arabs," known as Al Madan. We'll sail among reeds and floating villages, spend time with local families, and enjoy a traditional lunch in a house built entirely of reeds, the famous Al Mudhif.

► Ur, Najaf and Karbala: the spiritual heart of Iraq

Continuing our trip through Iraq, we'll delve into the country's ancient history by visiting the Sumerian city of Ur. There, we'll discover the impressive ziggurat, the remains of Shulgi's palace, and the house of Abraham, a figure revered by all three monotheistic religions. From there, we'll head to Najaf, one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. We'll tour the immense Wadi Al-Salam cemetery and learn about the story of Imam Ali while exploring the shrine that bears his name. Afterwards, we will arrive in Karbala, the spiritual centre of Shiism. We will visit the shrines of Imam Hussein and his brother Abbas, two pivotal figures for millions of believers. We will also discuss the history of the Battle of Karbala and the differences between Shiites and Sunnis, gaining a deeper understanding of the country's religious diversity.

► Babylon and Baghdad: Ancient Empires and a Vibrant Present

Our trip to Iraq will continue in the mythical Babylon, where we will explore the remains of one of the most legendary cities of antiquity. We will see the reconstructed Ishtar Gate, the Lion of Babylon, and the remains of the palace where Alexander the Great died. We will also visit one of the palaces built by Saddam Hussein, an imposing testament to the country's recent past. From there, we head to Baghdad, the vibrant capital. We'll tour its old town, traditional markets, and iconic monuments such as the Mustansiriya Madrasa and the Abbasid Palace. We'll also cruise along the Tigris and stop at the statue of the poet Al-Mutanabbi, a symbol of Iraq's rich literary heritage. Later, we'll have the opportunity to meet Iraqis from different walks of life and ages, who will share their experiences and visions of modern-day Iraq.

► Fallujah and the cultural legacy

During our visit to Fallujah, we will reflect on the country's recent history and its reconstruction. We will also visit the National Museum of Iraq, where we will discover the archaeological treasures of the civilizations that flourished between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. This space will help us better understand the importance of Iraq's cultural legacy and how it continues to influence contemporary society.

► Samarra, Hatra and the Abbasid legacy

On this leg of our trip to Iraq, we'll travel north to discover architectural gems such as Samarra, the ancient capital of the Abbasid Caliphate, where we'll admire its famous helical minaret. We'll also visit Ahsur, a key city of the Assyrian Empire, and Hatra, an ancient religious centre that managed to resist the Roman Empire and whose ruins still convey the splendour of bygone eras. Despite the damage suffered by ISIS, its temples and walls remain as a symbol of cultural resilience.

► Mosul: reconstruction and hope

The visit to Mosul will represent one of the most moving chapters of this trip to Iraq. We will explore the reconstruction of the old city, visiting sites such as the Al-Nuri Mosque, the Al-Tahira Church, and other spaces damaged during the ISIS occupation. Also, we will hear the testimonies of its inhabitants, who generously share their memories and their desire for recovery. In addition, we will also stroll through the bazaar, taste the delicious local koubba, and witness how the city's spirit is reborn with strength.

► Nineveh, Lalish and Al-Qosh: religious diversity and resilience

We will continue our trip through Iraq to the Nineveh Plains to meet the Christian and Yazidi communities. We will share breakfast with a Christian family, visit temples, and tour the rock-hewn Rabban Hormizd Monastery. Later, in Lalish—the holiest site for the Yazidis—we will experience a unique and respectful spiritual journey, delving into an ancient faith that has survived multiple persecutions.

► Iraqi Kurdistan: nature and living culture

We'll conclude this unforgettable trip to Iraq in Kurdistan, a region with its own unique identity. There, we'll visit the mountain-surrounded city of Akre, where we'll meet members of the Kurdish community and enjoy its landscapes. Then, we'll arrive in Erbil, the regional capital, where we'll explore its imposing citadel and the lively markets surrounding it. It'll also be time to bid farewell to the country, discovering its most modern and cosmopolitan side.

© Photos by Begoña Fernández-ColmeiroandXavi de las Heras taken during a trip to Iraq.

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