Saddam Hussein's Palace in Babylon
Beginning in 1983, Saddam Hussein began to rebuild the city of Babylon, placing his name on each of the bricks used in construction. Following the Gulf War, he built his palace near the ancient city overlooking the Tigris River. He entitled it Saddam Hill.
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Significance
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In May 2009, the site opened to the public for visitors. While the palace is essentially gutted, tourists can view its many rooms for a low fee.
Considerations
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According to National Public Radio, it is estimated that Saddam himself only visited the palace once or twice before being arrested following the U.S. invasion. It is thought that he probably never even spent the night.
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History
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The palace was heavily damaged both during and after the initial invasion in 2003. Graffiti from U.S. and Polish troops covers the walls and the murals and frescoes of Hussein are almost completely destroyed.
Features
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One opportunity for tourists is the ability for guests to spend their honeymoon on the property in one of the guesthouses. The cost for this visit is $180.
Function
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Since the occupation began in 2003, U.S. troops have used the palace as a operating base. The Marines, in particular, worked with local curators of the Baghdad museum to preserve and retain what is left of the palace.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Carla Hufstedler
