Victory Arch (The Swords of Qadisiyah)

DESTINATIONS iraq baghdad Do & See Victory Arch (The Swords of Qadisiyah)

Victory Arch (The Swords of Qadisiyah)

Victory Arch or The Swords of Qadisiyyah, also known as the Hands of Victory, is one of Baghdad’s more striking monuments. It features two colossal statues of hands holding crossed swords that arch above the road. The monument marks the entrance to a major traffic circle and celebrates Iraq's victory in the Iran-Iraq War. Erected during Saddam Hussein’s regime, it reflects the era’s characteristic style of monumental propaganda.

Useful Information

Address: Grand Festivities Square, Baghdad

Do & See

While international visitors are generally advised to remain within the International Zone (Green Zone) for security reasons, exploring beyond its boundaries can offer a deeper insight into Baghdad's rich cultural and historical landscape. Outside the zone, you’ll find impressive monuments such as the Swords of Qadisiyyah and the Al-Shaheed Memorial, as well as significant museums like the Iraqi National Museum. Additionally, parks like Al-Zawraa Park offer much-needed green spaces for locals and visitors to enjoy.

Monument to the Unknown Soldier

The Monument to the Unknown Soldier, located in the Al-Shaheed (Martyrs) Memorial complex in Baghdad, is a striking symbol of sacrifice and valour. Built between 1979 and 1982, the monument features a design that includes a stylised Iraqi shield and sword, representing the fallen soldiers. It serves to commemorate all those who fought and …

Iraqi National Museum

The Iraqi National Museum is dedicated to the rich history of Iraq and its ancient civilisations, including the Sumerians, Assyrians, and Babylonians. Its collections feature artefacts that span over 7,000 years of history. Unfortunately, many of these invaluable pieces were lost during the looting that occurred in the early days of the Iraq War …

Victory Arch (The Swords of Qadisiyah)

Baghdadi Museum

Often referred to as the Iraqi equivalent of Madame Tussaud's, the Baghdadi Museum features wax sculptures that capture the lives of average Baghdadi residents from the mid-20th century. Unlike Madame Tussaud’s, which focuses on contemporary celebrities, this museum offers a glimpse into daily life and the local culture of the …

Al-Zawraa Park

Al-Zawraa Park is one of Baghdad’s largest and most well-known green spaces. Originally an army camp, the area was converted into a family-friendly park in the 1970s. It features expansive green spaces, a roller coaster, shops, cafés, and even the Baghdad …