Today, even the military cannot afford to take a leisurely stroll through Iraq
Few people seek to settle in this picturesque corner. As strange as it may seem, Iraq has not only burning oil rigs, American soldiers, and terrorists. Besides all these nuances, the country is full of historical monuments. Which, by the way, if it weren't for the war, there would be even more. But for now, Iraq has no hotel chains, and tourists are not welcomed at the highest level.
One of the places worth seeing, if not for the risk of staying there forever, is Wadi al-Salam – the largest Muslim cemetery and one of the largest in the world. "Valley of Peace" is the translation of the name of this popular burial ground. It is located near the sacred city of Shiite Muslims, Najaf. The cemetery, sprawling over six square kilometers, holds more than 5 million graves. This necropolis has special significance for Shiites also because among the many graves is the mausoleum of the first Shiite Imam, Ali ibn Abi Talib. If his name means nothing, perhaps the name of his cousin, the Prophet Muhammad, will ring a bell.
Seeing Wadi al-Salam with one's own eyes is unlikely. Currently, it is impossible to enter Iraq as a tourist. Tour operators from all countries do not offer tours to this country. And in any other capacity, it is dangerous. Of course, one could go to Iraq under the guise of an engineer or a doctor, but even then, visiting the cemetery is not recommended if you are not a Muslim – relatives of deceased Shiites are unlikely to welcome representatives of any other religion.
In principle, it is still possible to enter Iraq. But the consulate issues only an official visa, for which the enterprise must write a request to the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs. If they consider that the applicant can benefit the state, they may let them in. Then a few tips.
Do not go into the city at night. Most shootings and kidnappings occur during the dark hours. If you go out in daylight, try not to look like a tourist. No cameras, city maps, or questions like "How do I get to the mosque?" You must look like someone who has lived in the country for a long time. And then you'll live to see another day.
_