Basra |
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Basra, the capital of Basra Governorate, is the second largest city of Iraq with a population estimate of about 2,600,000 as according to 2003 census. Located along the Shatt al-Arab waterway near the Persian Gulf, it is the main port city of Iraq. The extensive network of canals that lay across the city has helped the city to earn the title of being the "Venice of the Middle East". Though references suggest that the area was inhabited from ancient times, the present city was founded in 636. As the name Al- Basarh in Arabic means 'seeing everything', the city was established mainly as a military base against the Sassanid Empire.
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Tourist Attractions:
The beautiful landscape of the city of Basra would undoubtedly attract you. For centuries the city had been a center of science and cultural development. In addition to the mosques that exhibit the architectural beauty of the old age, you can also come across numerous castles that were built in the olden days. Now most of them are on the verge of ruins but still you can enjoy them.
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Transportation
The city of Basra is served by an extensive system of railways. Basra is connected to all the major places of the country through network of highways that pass across the city. Basra is also accessible through the Shatt al Arab maritime traffic. The main airport that operates in the city is the Basra International Airport.
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Shopping
Besides the innumerable shopping malls, you can find a equally large number of pedestrian shops. You can find a great variety of local handicrafts here. Near the port area you can find a great many shops from where you can purchase a number of exported items.
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Hotels
The gradually -developing city of Basra has a wide range of options for you as you can easily find both costly and cheap hotels. Most of these hotels are located in the heart of Basra from where you can go all the main places within a very few seconds.
So, enjoy your trip to Basra, Iraq. For more information log on allwondercities.com.
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