Garden of Ridván, Historical garden in Rusafa district, Baghdad, Iraq
The Garden of Ridván was an expansive green space in eastern Baghdad with four main pathways lined with rose beds and varied plants. The site stretched along the eastern bank of the Tigris River and formed a leafy oasis with lush vegetation.
Muhammad Najib Pasha, Baghdad's governor from 1842 to 1847, founded the garden in an agricultural area and originally named it the Najibiyyih Garden. The site later gained significance when an important religious declaration took place there in 1863.
The name Ridván means paradise, and this garden held deep spiritual meaning for Baháʼí followers as a place of gathering and witness. The site remains symbolic of a pivotal religious declaration that shaped the beliefs and practices of this faith community across the world.
The original garden site has been converted into Baghdad Medical City, a hospital complex located in the Rusafa district. Visitors should be aware that the location is now a working medical facility and may not be accessible as a historic garden site.
The garden was renowned for its roses and became the symbol of a religious movement that spread worldwide. The site itself is no longer visible to the public as a historic garden, now integrated into a modern hospital facility.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
