Balad, Iraq
Museums
If you're in Balad, Iraq and interested in visiting museums, the National Museum of Iraq in Baghdad is one of the most significant museums in the area. It's located about 68 kilometers to the south of Balad. Additionally, the Sumerian Civilization Museum and the Baghdadi Museum are also located in Baghdad and may be of interest to you.
Food
Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat according to local people in Balad, Iraq include:
1. Masgouf - grilled fish dish often made with carp or tilapia that is marinated in spices and then slow-cooked over an open fire.
2. Qeema - a minced meat dish cooked with a variety of spices, onions, and tomatoes.
3. Tashreeb - a stew made with lamb, chicken or beef, and flavored with cinnamon and other spices.
4. Dolma - stuffed vegetables such as grape leaves, bell peppers, or zucchini with spiced rice and meat.
5. Kubba - a deep-fried or baked dish made with bulgur wheat, ground meat, and herbs.
6. Bamia - a stew made with okra, lamb, tomatoes and onions.
7. Shawarma - a popular street food consisting of marinated meat (usually chicken or lamb) cooked on a rotating spit and served in pita bread with salad, hummus, and sauces.
8. Falafel - fried balls made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices, often served in pita bread with salad and various sauces.
Note: Please be aware that some of these dishes may contain certain ingredients that you may want to avoid depending on your dietary restrictions/needs.
Activities
Some fun activities that local people in Balad, Iraq enjoy include:
1. Visiting the Al-Askari Shrine - a significant Shia Muslim shrine located in Samarra, just 30 kilometers north of Balad.
2. Exploring the ancient ruins of the city of Ctesiphon, located about 45 kilometers south of Balad.
3. Taking a stroll through the historic market of Al-Mutanabbi Street in Baghdad, which is located approximately 60 kilometers south of Balad.
4. Enjoying a picnic in the scenic parks near the Tigris River, such as the Al Zuhur Park or Al Muthanna Park.
5. Watching a football (soccer) match at the Balad Stadium, where local teams often play against each other.
