Landmark
Victory Arch
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The Victory Arch, also known as the Swords of Qadisiyah, is a monumental triumphal arch in Baghdad built to commemorate the Iran–Iraq War. Designed by Iraqi sculptor Mohammed Ghani Hikmat, the arch features two colossal hands emerging from the ground, each holding a 43-meter-long sword. The hands are cast from molds of Saddam Hussein's forearms, and the swords are made of melted-down weapons of war. Visitors can walk beneath the arch and appreciate its sheer scale and controversial history.
Don't miss
- Stand beneath the towering 43-meter swords and feel the immense scale of the monument.
- Notice the detailed hands, cast from Saddam Hussein's forearms, holding the blades.
- Visit the nearby parade ground and reflecting pool for a full view of the arch.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Victory Arch
You can see Victory Arch on your own. A tour is worth it for the story behind it, for transport, or for combining nearby sights into one day.
Getting there
More attractions in Baghdad
