Flag of Iraq

Iraq

Capital Baghdad
Population ~42 million
Currency Iraqi Dinar (IQD)

Quick Facts

Languages
Arabic, Kurdish
Religion
Islam (Shia and Sunni)
Climate
Arid to semiarid; hot summers and mild winters

Culture & History

Known for: being Mesopotamia, the cradle of civilization, its oil reserves, and recent conflicts

Also famous for: ancient ruins (Babylon), Baghdad, and hospitality

Food: Masgouf (grilled fish)

Brief History

Mesopotamia; part of the Ottoman Empire; British mandate; independent republic; experienced conflicts in recent decades; rich in oil resources