population: 0.238 million

extension: 3,027 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Tikrit and interested in visiting museums, one option is the Saddam Hussein Presidential Center. However, due to its association with the former dictator, some visitors may find this museum controversial.

Alternatively, you may consider visiting the Tikrit Museum, which features archaeological artifacts from the ancient city of Tikrit and surrounding areas. The museum also includes exhibits on local history and culture.

If you're interested in visiting other museums in Iraq, the National Museum of Iraq in Baghdad is a must-see. Other nearby options include the Babylon Museum in Hillah and the Erbil Civilization Museum in Erbil.

Food

Some of the most popular and typical dishes to eat according to local people in Tikrit, Iraq include:

1. Tepsi Baytinijan: This is a layered dish made with eggplant, ground beef, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It's typically served with rice.

2. Kebab: This grilled meat dish can be made with lamb, chicken, or beef. The meat is marinated in spices and then skewered and grilled over charcoal.

3. Masgouf: This is a whole grilled fish, typically from the carp family, marinated in herbs and spices. It's often served with tamarind sauce and bread.

4. Dolma: This dish consists of vegetables stuffed with a mixture of rice, meat, and spices. The stuffed vegetables are then cooked in a tomato-based sauce.

5. Eshkeneh: This is a soup made with lentils, eggs, onion, and spices. It's often served with bread.

6. Qima: This is a spiced ground meat dish that can be used as a topping for rice, noodles, or bread.

7. Samakat Hamour: This is another fish dish, made with hamour fish and served with a side of rice.

8. Kubba: These are deep-fried meatballs made with bulgur wheat and stuffed with ground meat and spices. They're often served with a side of yogurt sauce.

9. Baklava: This is a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, honey, and nuts.

10. Halawa: This is a sweet treat made with tahini and sugar, often flavored with pistachios or almonds.

Activities

Some fun activities that local people enjoy in Tikrit and the surrounding area include:

1. Visiting the ruins of the ancient city of Tikrit: There are many historical sites in and around Tikrit, including the ruins of the ancient city, which date back to the 3rd millennium BC.

2. Exploring Saddam Hussein's former palace: After the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime, some of his former palaces were turned into public attractions. One such palace is Tikrit's Al-Awja Palace, which features stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.

3. Sampling Iraqi cuisine: Food plays a big role in Iraqi culture, and there are plenty of restaurants and local markets where you can try traditional Iraqi dishes such as kebabs, biryani, and falafel.

4. Taking a boat ride on the Tigris River: The Tigris River flows through Tikrit and offers a peaceful and scenic way to explore the area.

5. Attending local festivals and celebrations: Iraq has a rich cultural heritage and hosts numerous festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Tikrit is no exception, and locals often gather to celebrate events such as Eid al-Fitr and Ashura.