Eridu at night, lit by torchlight

Middle East

Eridu, Iraq

The world's first city

30.8167° N, 45.9961° E

The Sumerians said kingship first came down from heaven at Eridu; its temple was rebuilt for thousands of years, then the city was abandoned to the desert.

Best time to go
November to March
Fly into
Basra (BSR)
How long
1 to 2 days
Insider tip
Check your government's travel advice before booking; most visitors pair Eridu with the ziggurat at Ur nearby.

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Wide-brim sun hat

Shade for long hours on open desert sites with little cover.

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Cooling towel

Soak it and wear it; helps in midday desert heat.

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Rechargeable headlamp

Hands-free light for dark tomb corridors and early starts.

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Insulated reusable water bottle

Keeps water cold through a hot day in the sun.

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Half Day Private Tour to Iraq al-Amir (Qasr al-‘Abed)

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