Open space for the arts

Street of Culture reopens in Nasiriyah as city aims to go toe-to-toe with Baghdad and Basra

NASIRIYAH — A lively celebration unfolded in the heart of Nasiriyah as 13 cultural and governmental institutions gathered to commemorate the reopening of the city’s “Street of Culture.” The event attracted poets, writers, and artists, featuring book exhibitions, literary discussions, poetry sessions, musical performances, karate demonstrations, and visual art displays.

Local officials announced a development plan valued at 500 million Iraqi dinars ($333,333) to transform the street into a landmark comparable to Baghdad’s Al-Mutanabbi Street and Basra’s Al-Farahidi Street.

“Residents of Dhi Qar have a tradition of gathering on this street every Friday to engage in literary, cultural, and artistic activities,” said Riyad Al-Dhahi, head of the Services Committee in Dhi Qar’s council, speaking to 964media. “The provincial council previously voted to revamp the street as part of a 500-million-dinar project funded by Dhi Qar Oil Company’s social benefits program. We look forward to commencing this project shortly, which entails a new roofing design, to make this street a suitable tribute to the people of Dhi Qar.”

The street was initially launched in late 2016 but faced interruptions due to protests and the COVID-19 pandemic, resuming activities in 2022. Haitham Abdul Khudhr, head of the Street of Culture team, explained that the street now serves as an open cultural space hosting diverse weekly activities every Friday afternoon, including book fairs, talent showcases, and celebrations of local and national icons.

“The street’s team operates voluntarily with self-funding, and today we have initiated a new season for 2025 with significant government and community presence,” said Abdul Khudhr. “Today marks the reopening of the Cultural Street in Nasiriyah with contributions from 13 cultural and governmental bodies. The street’s activities are organized voluntarily and funded independently, and we aspire for the upcoming renovation to establish this space as a cultural symbol that reflects the identity of the city.”

The event also featured an art exhibition by cartoonist Ihsan Al-Faraj, who showcased 17 of his pieces, many were presented at friday showcases and previous personal exhibits. “True happiness is when you find yourself standing on the Street of Culture in Nasiriyah,” Al-Faraj said. “Here you meet all the symbols of art and literature, which are considered the source of all literature and arts. Here you find yourself surrounded by elite poets, writers, authors, and connoisseurs of these arts.”