If you're in Diwaniyah and interested in visiting museums, one place you may want to check out is the Diwaniya Museum of Antiquities. It houses a collection of ancient artefacts, including pottery, statues, and coins, dating back to the Sumerian and Babylonian periods.
If you're looking for similar museums nearby, you may consider visiting the National Museum of Iraq in Baghdad or the Basra Museum in Basra. Both of these museums also contain significant collections of ancient artefacts from Mesopotamia.
Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Diwaniyah, Iraq, according to local people are:
1. Masgouf: A grilled fish dish made from freshwater carp that's marinated in a tangy blend of spices and then slow-grilled over an open flame.
2. Qozi: This is a roasted lamb or mutton dish that's typically served with rice, raisins, and almonds.
3. Tashreeb: A hearty stew made with chunks of lamb or chicken, chickpeas, and vegetables, all seasoned with fragrant spices.
4. Dolma: Stuffed vegetables such as peppers, eggplants, and tomatoes, filled with a mixture of spiced rice and ground meat.
5. Kubba: A deep-fried or baked dumpling made from bulgur wheat dough stuffed with minced meat and spices.
6. Samoon: A type of flatbread that's similar to pita bread, it can be served with various dips like hummus, baba ganoush, and tzatziki.
7. Baklava: A sweet pastry made from layers of phyllo pastry filled with chopped nuts and honey syrup.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious foods you can find in Diwaniyah.
Some fun activities that local people enjoy in Diwaniyah include:
1. Visiting the City Park: Diwaniyah has a beautiful park, Al-Hadi Park, which is a popular spot for families to spend time on weekends and holidays. The park has green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
2. Exploring the Old Town: The old town of Diwaniyah has many historical landmarks, such as the Baath Party Headquarters, Mukhtar al-Thaqafi Shrine, and Abbasid Palace. You can take a walking tour or hire a local guide to show you around.
3. Shopping at Local Markets: Diwaniyah has several markets where you can find traditional goods, including the Qaisariya Market, which sells spices, dried fruits, and nuts, and the Al-Shamkhiyah Market, which sells handmade crafts and clothing.
4. Attending Sporting Events: Football (soccer) is a popular sport in Iraq, and Diwaniyah has several local football teams. You can catch a game at the Al-Diwaniya Stadium and cheer on the home team.
5. Enjoying Local Food: Iraqi cuisine is known for its rich flavors and variety of dishes. Some popular local dishes in Diwaniyah include masgouf (grilled fish), kubba (stuffed meatballs), and dolma (stuffed vegetables). You can try these dishes at local restaurants and cafes.