BAGHDAD: Iraq has inaugurated an archaeology museum in the southern, oil-rich city of Basra, the first museum to be opened in the war-ravaged country in decades.

The head of Basra Museum, Qahtan al-Obaid, told The Associated Press that one hall was opened on Tuesday.

Named Basra Hall, it showcases artefacts dating from 400 BC to 1800 AD. He said the objects tell the history of Basra as a commercial and cultural hub.

He added that other halls will be opened in the future to showcase the civilisations that flourished in Mesopotamia, such as the Babylonians, Assyrians and the Sumerians — who date back to 3000 BC.

The museum is housed in a former palace belonging to Saddam Hussein, Iraq’s longstanding president who was overthrown following the 2003 US-led invasion.

Published in Dawn September 28th, 2016

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