History & Culture:
What ancient civilization flourished in southern Iraq, leaving behind ziggurats like the Great Ziggurat of Ur?
Sumerian civilization
Which two rivers cradle the fertile region known as Mesopotamia within Iraq?
Tigris and Euphrates
What empire famously invaded Iraq in the 7th century AD, bringing Islam to the region?
Umayyad Caliphate
Who became the first president of the Republic of Iraq, established in 1958?
Abdul Karim Qassim
Which iconic city, once known as Babylon, lies in south-central Iraq and is famous for its Hanging Gardens?
Hillah
What type of music, characterized by its distinctive makam system, is popular in Iraq and surrounding regions?
Maqam
What traditional dish, made with rice, lentils, and various spices, is considered a national symbol of Iraq?
Masgouf
Which ancient Assyrian capital, known for its colossal winged lions, is located in northern Iraq?
Nimrud
What is the currency of Iraq?
Iraqi dinar
Which language is considered the official language of Iraq?
Arabic
Geography & Nature:
Where is Iraq located?
Iraq is located in Western Asia and is bordered by Turkey to the north, Syria to the northwest, Jordan to the west, Saudi Arabia to the south and southwest, Kuwait to the southeast, and Iran to the east. It also has a small coastline along the northeastern tip of the Persian Gulf.
What is the highest mountain in Iraq, located in the Zagros Mountains?
Haji Ibrahim Peak
What desert covers a large portion of western Iraq, stretching eastward into Saudi Arabia?
An-Nafud desert
Which wetland ecosystem in southern Iraq is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven for numerous bird species?
The Marshlands of Mesopotamia
What city in northern Iraq is known for its ancient citadel and Kurdish cultural heritage?
Erbil
What is the second-largest city in Iraq, located near the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates?
Basra
What is the name of the large lake formed by the construction of the Mosul Dam on the Tigris River?
Lake Mosul
What fruit, native to the Middle East, is extensively cultivated in Iraq and boasts numerous varieties?
Date
Which animal is considered the national symbol of Iraq?
Mesopotamian Marsh Buffalo
What significant archaeological site in southern Iraq was once a major Sumerian city-state and boasts the ziggurat of Eanna?
Uruk
Which modern country directly borders Iraq to the west?
Syria
Modern Life & Trivia:
What sport is considered the most popular in Iraq?
Football (Soccer)
What iconic landmark in Baghdad was severely damaged during the 2003 Iraq War and is currently undergoing reconstruction?
The National Museum of Iraq
What traditional garment is often worn by men in Iraq, characterized by its flowing robe and sash?
Dishdasha
What international event did Iraq host in 2009, marking a symbolic milestone in post-war recovery?
Copa Coca-Cola International Youth Football Tournament
What renowned Iraqi architect designed the iconic Baghdad Central Station, blending modern and Islamic architectural styles?
Zaha Hadid
What is the current population of Iraq, roughly estimated?
Approximately 42 million
What is the main religion practiced in Iraq?
Islam (majority Shia Muslim)
What modern technology has Iraq invested in recently, aiming to improve irrigation and water management?
Drone-based crop monitoring and precision agriculture techniques