Saddam Hussein Babylon Palace

It’s estimated that Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein built 80 – 100 palaces during his 24 year reign. Billions of dollars were spent on lavish structures with gold and marble fittings – no expense was spared. They were seen as an expression of his power and authority over Iraq. There was a Saddam Hussein palace built in every town of prominence across Iraq. These were not just built for the dictator himself. Wives and top party officials were also well looked after.

The Saddam Hussein palace at Babylon was constructed in 1986 just steps from the historic heart of Babel. It’s walls are engraved with his initials and likeness.

During the war, Western troops pitched tents in the vast empty rooms at Saddam Hussein's Babylonian palace. After the Saddam's fall from power brought vandals and looters. The smoked glass windows were shattered, the furnishings removed, and architectural details — from faucets to light switches — had been stripped away.