ABOUT THE CENTER

 

About the Center The center is dedicated to local cultural heritage and is affiliated with Local government in Basra. Administratively, it is linked to the Basra Central Public Library. Located in the city of Basra, the center is housed in a traditional shanasheel (heritage) home in the Al-Basha neighborhood. It includes a public library with thousands of books, including rare ones, and features a permanent exhibition showcasing Iraq’s maritime heritage. The center regularly hosts art exhibitions, seminars, and conferences on the history and heritage of Basra. It also publishes the Basra Heritage Magazine.

 

ABOUT THE LIBRARY

The library is located on the upper floor of the center’s building and is divided into two wings. It contains thousands of books and periodicals, including rare volumes. The library is a distinguished, free destination for researchers, intellectuals, and those interested in Iraq’s history and the heritage of Basra. Most of the collection focuses on Basra’s rich historical and cultural legacy, highlighting its role as one of the most prominent Arab and Islamic cities. Many influential figures have emerged from Basra, such as Al-Jahiz, Sibawayh, Ibn al-Muqaffa', Al-Farahidi, Badr Shakir al-Sayyab, and Abdul Karim al-Bariqan.

Main Topics:

• History and Heritage of Basra
• Ancient History of Iraq
• Modern and Contemporary History of Iraq
• History of the Arabian Gulf
• Islamic History
• History of Literature and the Arts
• References and Dictionaries