The National Museum of Iraq, commonly known as the Iraq Museum, is the principal national institution in Baghdad dedicated to the archaeology and history of Mesopotamia and neighbouring cultures. It houses artifacts that illustrate the long human story of the region from the earliest urban societies to later empires. The museum is identified by its historic site coordinates and local name — see map coordinates and Arabic name for reference.

Collections and galleries

Its holdings span a wide chronological range and include pottery, sculpture, inscriptions, cylinder seals, jewellery and architectural fragments. The displays trace major cultural phases such as Sumerian, Akkadian, Babylonian and Assyrian developments. Key categories include written cuneiform tablets, monumental reliefs, royal statuary and small sculpted objects that illuminate social, religious and administrative life in ancient Mesopotamia.

Highlights

  • Representative royal and religious sculpture and reliefs associated with ancient cities.
  • Collections of cuneiform tablets that document law, commerce and literature.
  • Small finds such as seals, jewellery and ritual objects showing everyday life.

History and development

The museum was founded in the 20th century during the period of the British mandate and development of modern Iraqi institutions; it became the country’s main public repository for archaeological discoveries and scholarly work. Over decades the museum grew through excavations and acquisitions to reflect the region's antique diversity and importance to world history. For contextual detail see historical notes and administrative background.

2003 losses, recovery and conservation

The institution suffered extensive looting and damage in 2003 during the conflict that accompanied the fall of Baghdad. Large numbers of objects were stolen, dispersed or damaged, prompting an international effort for recovery, documentation and conservation. Many pieces have been traced and returned, while others remain missing or were found in damaged condition. Ongoing conservation and security improvements reflect lessons learned and the museum’s role in cultural heritage protection.

Significance and public role

The museum serves multiple roles: public exhibition, research centre, and a symbol of national identity and cultural continuity. It supports scholars working on Mesopotamian languages and history and provides educational programs for visitors. The institution also participates in international cooperation concerning repatriation, conservation and the study of antiquities from the ancient Near East. For further cultural and geographic context see museum type, institutional profile, Baghdad, Iraq, Mesopotamia, Assyria and Babylon.