Baghdad

Baghdad (Arabic: بغداد‎ Baġdād) is the capital of Iraq and the largest city in both Iraq and the Levant. Located along the Tigris River, it has a population estimated at 8 million people within its metropolitan area as of 2015. As one of the oldest cities in world history, Baghdad was founded by Caliph Al-Mansur in 762 AD during Abbasid rule over Mesopotamia and served as an important center for Islamic civilization until modern times. It rose to prominence under several empires including Seljuks, Ayyubids, Mongols and Ottomans before becoming part of British occupied Iraqi mandate post World War I when it became capital city under King Faisal I who renamed it “The City Of Peace”.

In 2003 during Operation Iraqi Freedom US forces captured control from Saddam Hussein’s regime after which time conditions deteriorated due to sectarian violence caused by al-Qaeda affiliated groups such as ISIS leading to displacement of millions out side Baghdad walls into rural areas or abroad. Following this period security measures were increased with support from coalition nations ultimately resulting in improved situation particularly since 2017 with International Monetary Fund reporting growth rate above 5%.

As seat government ministries many international companies have opened offices here while tourism industry continues develop albeit still subject instability brought on events like Arab Spring 2011 uprisings against Assad Regime neighboring Syria . Major landmarks include 12th century Mustansiriya University , Ali Baba Kiosque , Great Mosque Imam Musa Kadhim shrine Zawiya Sufi Order Naqshbandi among others making popular destination locals foreign visitors alike .

Today Baghdadi citizens enjoy wide range cultural activities ranging traditional festivals musical performances multi media art exhibitions cinema theatres theme parks zoo various sport venues notably Shaab Stadium home local football club Air Force Club regularly host national matches well concerts international acts throughout year . Additionally UNESCO recognized 19 sites across country relevant contribution global heritage humanity addition numerous museums libraries detailing histories civilizations contributed development region .