Iraq – Place – World Culture Explorations

Place: What is Iraq like?

Some examples commons foods in Iraq are kebab, grilled meat on a stick. Dolma is stuffed spiced rice wrapped in grape leaves. Biryani is cooked rice with spices and meat and or vegetables, beans, and grilled nuts. Masgoulf is fresh carp grilled on an outside grill. Alcohol is forbidden to Muslims but young Muslims do not obey the rule. The most common drink in Iraq is tea. Iraqis have many traditions. This includes Ramadan, Iraqis fast for a month but eat throughout the night. Eid Mubarek is a three day holiday in which the women of the house cook desserts for their families. Eid al Adha is a four day holiday in which Muslims take a pilgrimage also known as Hajj, and go to Mecca. Muslims who do not attend the pilgrimage celebrate with other friends or other families. Iraqis also have festivals in addition to their holidays. Some festivals include Army Day on January 6, Baghdad Liberation Day on April 9, Republic Day on July 14, Ceasefire Day or End of Iran-Iraq War on August 8, and Iraqi Independence Day on October 3. The majority of Iraqis are Islam. Iraq’s official languages are Arabic and Kurdish, but a minority of the population speaks Mandaic, Shabaki, Armenian, Feyli Lurish, and Persian. Despite the brutal wars Iraq still has many beautiful landmarks such as Babylon City, Great Ziggurat of Ur, Hatra Ruins, National Museum of Iraq, and Wadi al Salam.

Dolma