Basrah Museum

Located on the banks of the Shatt al-Arab roughly 3 km southeast of Basra's historic city center, the Basrah Museum offers an extraordinary journey through centuries of ancient history. Housed inside a 2,500-square-meter former palace of Saddam Hussein featuring Ottoman architecture with traditional Basrian shanasheels, this remarkable cultural landmark showcases over 2,500 artefacts spanning Mesopotamian, Babylonian, Persian, and local history. As you explore the ground floor's domed foyer and four main galleries, you will discover treasures dating as far back as 6,000 BCE.

Marvel at Neo-Assyrian items from the 9th to 8th century BCE in the Assyrian Gallery, examine Babylonian pieces focusing on the Kassites in the Babylon Gallery, and trace material from the 5500 BCE Halaf culture to the Third Dynasty of Ur in the Sumer Gallery. In the Basrah Gallery, view Islamic-period pottery, glass vessels, terracotta figurines, Hellenistic coins, and recovered artifacts looted during 1991. Step outside into the compound to observe two traditional reed guesthouses, known as mudhifs, alongside classic boats typical of the Mesopotamian Marshes.

It provides a unique opportunity to witness priceless heritage triumphantly returned to public display in southern Iraq.

What to see at Basrah Museum

• Former palace setting featuring Ottoman architecture and Basrian shanasheels
• Over 2,500 ancient artefacts across Sumer, Babylon, Assyrian, and Basrah galleries
• Sumerian objects dating back to the 5500 BCE Halaf culture
• Basrah Gallery displays including Hellenistic coins and pottery
• Outdoor compound with traditional reed guesthouses (mudhifs) and marsh boats

Visiting tips

Be sure to explore the outdoor compound next to the museum to view the traditional reed guesthouses and marsh boats.

How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Basrah Museum is easy to reach on Basra’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Basra travel guide.