BAGHDAD: Scattered across Iraq lie more than 100 opulent palaces and villas built by former dictator Saddam Hussein some in use, many in ruins like much of the war-scarred country. With their marble columns, ornate carvings and gaudy furniture, they reflected the megalomania and delusions of grandeur of Saddam, who visited some of them only once or twice. In his Babylon
Scattered across Iraq lie more than 100 opulent palaces and villas built by former dictator Saddam Hussein some in use, many in ruins like much of the war-scarred country.With their marble columns, ornate carvings and gaudy furniture, they reflected the megalomania and delusions of grandeur of Saddam, who visited some of them only once or twice.In his Babylon residence, the feared strongman's profile is engraved in bas-relief like that of the Mesopotamian emperor he idolised, Chaldean dynasty king Nebuchadnezzar II.
More than 300 ancient writing tablets were returned to Iraq from a private Lebanese museum, as part of Baghdad's widespread efforts to restore antiquities looted during years of war.
More than 300 ancient cuneiform writing tablets were returned to Iraq on Monday from a private Lebanese museum, as part of Baghdad s widespread efforts to restore antiquities looted during years of war.