Into Iraq

In 2022, Michael Palin followed the path of the Tigris River from its source in eastern Turkey through the length of Iraq to the Persian Gulf. This account documents his three-week progress through a landscape defined by both ancient Mesopotamian history and recent military conflict. Palin records his observations of urban life in Baghdad and Mosul, the recovery of the Marshes in the south, and the architectural remains of Babylon. He focuses on the daily routines of local residents, interviewing archaeologists, fixers, and families to document how they maintain cultural traditions despite decades of political instability and war.

Travel enthusiasts read this book to understand the current reality of a region often viewed only through the lens of televised news. Readers gain a detailed perspective on Iraqi geography and the physical aftermath of the ISIS occupation. The narrative provides a practical look at the logistical challenges of crossing borders and navigating checkpoints in the Middle East. It appeals to those interested in how historical heritage persists in modern conflict zones and how individuals rebuild their lives after national upheaval.