Knights of Dialogue / 21
Ahmed Mohammed / Baghdad
In the heart of Iraq, where the tales of ancient history scatter and the waves of the marshes dance in a magnificent artistic tableau, lies Dhi Qar Governorate. My journey there was a dive into the depths of history and the beauty of nature, an unforgettable sensory experience etched in my memory and soul.
I headed to one of Dhi Qar’s greatest treasures, the Ziggurat of Ur. As it appeared majestically on the horizon, I felt awe at its grandeur and the weight of history. I ascended its stone steps slowly, each step taking me thousands of years back, to the time of the Sumerians, to Enlil, Enki, and Inanna…
A breeze caressed—or perhaps burned—my face; I could not quite define my feelings… what I knew for sure was that the air carried the fragrance of thousands of years of civilization.
From the top of the ziggurat, I gazed at the vast plains of Mesopotamia and imagined life in the great kingdom of Ur. The sun rose slowly, casting golden rays on this magnificent structure, painting a magical scene that reflected the authenticity and splendor of the place.
I then arrived in Nasiriyah, the capital of Dhi Qar, and immediately felt the warmth and hospitality of its people. Its lively streets and bustling traditional markets, filled with colors and scents, invited exploration. The harmonious voices of the vendors mingled with the aroma of spices and fresh bread, composing a unique symphony that awakened my senses.
Meeting the Artists’ Syndicate in Nasiriyah was an inspiring experience. I felt the passion of the creatives and their love for their city and history. I saw how art serves as a bridge connecting the past with the present, reflecting the authentic spirit of the place.
To complete the picture, the next dawn was dedicated to visiting the Al-Jabayish Marshes, the green watery paradise known as “the Garden of Eden.” I boarded a traditional wooden boat and glided quietly through the dense reeds and winding canals. The calm waters reflected the blue sky, rare water birds flew freely, and schools of fish danced beneath the clear surface. The refreshing scent of aquatic plants and the rustling reeds in the wind created a profound sense of peace and serenity.
I met the kind marsh dwellers and tasted freshly baked clay-oven bread along with their fish grilled in the ancient Sumerian way, still preserved to this day. I felt part of this unique tapestry of life. Their simplicity and generosity reflected the purity and beauty of the place.
My journey to Dhi Qar was a unique blend of wonder, learning, and deep connection to history and nature. Dhi Qar is not just a governorate; it is a story of civilization, a natural masterpiece, and a warm home for kind-hearted people. It is an invitation for anyone seeking authenticity, history, and tranquility—a sensory experience that lingers in the soul and memory.
