When you visit Baghdad, you cannot miss the Al-Shaheed Monument (Martyr's Memorial), one of the city's most iconic structures, situated on the east side of the Tigris River near the Army Canal. Designed by renowned Iraqi sculptor Ismail Fatah al-Turk alongside architect Saman Kamal, this striking landmark was completed in 1983. Originally built to honor soldiers killed during the Iran–Iraq War, it now commemorates all Iraqi martyrs.
Art in America magazine even rated it as the most beautiful design in the Middle East, making it a compelling cultural stop. As you explore the site, you will see a stunning 40-meter tall split turquoise tile dome sitting upon a 190-meter circular platform surrounded by an artificial lake. The split halves resemble Abbasid-era domes, framing an eternal flame and a twisted flagpole bearing the Iraqi flag.
Beneath the platform, you can discover two underground levels housing a museum, exhibition gallery, library, lecture hall, and cafeteria. Look down through an oculus under the flag to see light stream into the museum below, where the flag appears to float in space. Surrounding the monument, you can stroll across bridges and walkways set among peaceful parks, playgrounds, and the lake.
What to see at Al-Shaheed Monument
- A 40-meter tall split turquoise dome resembling Abbasid-era architecture
- An underground museum, exhibition gallery, library, and cafeteria situated beneath the domes
- A twisted metal flagpole and eternal flame positioned between the two half-domes
- A marble slab featuring Quranic verses written in ancient Kufi script
- Surrounding parks, walkways, bridges, and an artificial lake on a 190-meter platform
Visiting tips
Be sure to visit the underground museum to view the flag from below, where light streams through the oculus and makes it appear to float in space.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Al-Shaheed Monument is easy to reach on Baghdad’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Baghdad Tower and AlKhulafa Mosque. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Baghdad travel guide.
See the full Baghdad travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.