Tag: Baghdad

Baghdad is the capital city of Iraq, located in the central part of the country along the Tigris River. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and has a rich history dating back thousands of years.

Shaduppum: Forgotten City That Whispered Civilization

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Heritage & History11 Comments

The ancient city of Shaduppum, now modern-day Tell Harmal in Iraq, was a significant center during the Bronze Age and Early Iron Age. Known for its rich history, intricate urban layout, and its importance in bureaucracy, commerce, and culture, Shaduppum hosted numerous temples and was a hub for Babylonia's treasury and accounting. Its most notable discoveries include clay tablets inscribed with laws, mathematical equations, and remarkable texts such as The Epic of Gilgamesh, all of which provide valuable insights into the Mesopotamian civilization.

Baghdad: The Eternal City Amidst Time’s Trials

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Heritage & History20 Comments

Baghdad, established in 762 CE by the Abbasid Caliph Al-Mansur, has a rich history marked by its role as a center for culture and intellect during the Islamic Golden Age, particularly under Caliph Harun al-Rashid. Despite facing devastation from the Mongol invasion in 1258, which ended the Abbasid Caliphate, Baghdad has sustained its historical significance. My 13 years living there revealed a resilient city blending modern challenges with its profound past, embodying the enduring human spirit.

Baghdad’s Rare Snowfall: A Winter Wonder

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Muse & Musings6 Comments

In Baghdad, a rare snowfall captivated residents, transforming the bustling city into a serene, white landscape. This extraordinary event, not witnessed for over a decade, sparked reflections on the city's historical anomalies in climate. As the Iraqi Meteorological Organization forecasted further temperature drops, Baghdad's resilience and unpredictability in nature became evident. Amid the snow's quiet beauty, the city's storied past and uncertain future left a lingering sense of mystery.

The House of Heaven: Inanna’s Temple & the Architecture of Divine Power

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Heritage & History6 Comments

Inanna, a prominent Mesopotamian goddess, symbolized love, fertility, and war, governing both divine and earthly realms. Her myths illustrate themes of death and rebirth, showcasing her significance in agriculture. Temples dedicated to her served as spiritual and economic centers, influencing later cultures as Ishtar. Her worship declined with the rise of monotheism.

The Legacy of Al-Mustansiriya Madrasa: Education Through Adversity

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Heritage & History9 Comments

Al-Mustansiriya Madrasa, founded in 1227 in Baghdad, is a renowned Islamic institution of learning, offering a diverse curriculum. Its stunning architecture reflects Baghdad's historical significance in Islamic art. Despite facing invasions and repurposing, the madrasa has maintained its cultural and educational importance, symbolizing Iraq's resilience and intellectual tradition.

The Winged Genie of Assyria: A Glimpse into the Mystical Guardians of Mesopotamia

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Heritage & History11 Comments

The Winged Genie of Assyria, dating back to the 9th century BCE, is an ancient art sculpture symbolizing protection and fertility, often used in Assyrian religious practices. Displayed prominently in royal palaces, the Winged Genie was considered a benevolent spirit that could bring fortune and protection. The Genie was also part of a stone relief in King Sargon II's palace symbolizing purification and fertility. Today, the Winged Genie remains a significant representation of ancient Assyrian art.

Desert Truffle: A Lesser-known Delicacy of the Middle East

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Epicurean Mosaic13 Comments

Truffles, an expensive type of subterranean fungus that grows near the roots of specific trees, are renowned in the culinary world, particularly in Europe. However, more affordable desert truffles in the Middle East and North Africa, have provided nourishment, medicinal benefits, and even aphrodisiac properties throughout history. Their cultivation remains challenging, mostly relying on natural phenomena like thunderstorms for growth. These culinary treasures have a rich history, dating back to Sumerian times, and continue to be enjoyed today in various cuisines due to their unique flavor and nutritional benefits.

Dar es Salaam Festival: A Celebration of Baghdad’s Resilience

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Cultural Currents20 Comments

The Dar es Salaam Festival in Baghdad symbolizes resilience and hope amid challenges faced by the city. Originating in 2011 to celebrate International Peace Day, it has grown into a cultural renaissance, featuring music, art, and community dialogue. This annual event, situated by the Tigris River near iconic statues, unites diverse attendees in pursuit of peace, celebrating Baghdad’s rich heritage and future potential beyond past conflicts.

Shahbandar Café & the Soul of Baghdad

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Cultural Currents43 Comments

Today, we explored Baghdad's historic streets, focusing on Rashid and Mutanabbi streets. Despite the extreme heat, we visited the Shahbandar Café, known for its rich history and traditional Baghdadi lemon tea. The café has been pivotal to Baghdad's intellectual life since 1917, serving as a hub for discussions among poets and thinkers. Shahbandar symbolizes the city's resilience and offers visitors a glimpse into Baghdad's vibrant culture and history.