About Rafidain

Made with love for Iraq

Rafidain was made by Yousif Qasim, an Iraqi developer, with love for Iraq.

It began with a simple wish: that people everywhere could see Iraq the way its people know it. A land of two rivers and date palms, of the first cities and the first written words, of shrines, churches and old markets, and of people who welcome strangers. Every page here is an invitation to come and see for yourself.

Why Rafidain

Iraq holds some of the oldest chapters of human history, yet most of what the world reads about it is news of war, not Ur, Babylon or the marshes.

Rafidain brings these places together in one clear, free guide in Arabic and English, for visitors from abroad and for Iraqis rediscovering their own country.

What’s inside

176 archaeological, religious, heritage and natural sites from the south to Kurdistan, each with its own page, photos and visiting tips, plus a map, a timeline of civilizations, suggested routes and visa information.

Sources and photos

The texts draw on published historical and archaeological sources. Photos come from Wikimedia Commons and Flickr under free licences, with the photographer and licence credited with each image.

Visa and travel information can change; the official e-visa platform, evisa.iq, is the final reference.

An independent project

Rafidain is a personal, independent project. It is not an official government website.

Corrections and contributions

If you spot an error, or have photos of a site you would like to share, please write to the address below.