IRAQ-BASRA-OLD CITY

Iraqis cross a bridge dating from the 19th century in the old part of the city of Basra, 18 February 2007. The old city of Basra, which once has been called the Venice of the East, the traditional architecture crumbles from neglect due to the absence of rehabilitation works in this historical part of Iraq during the current conflict. Iraq's second largest city and main seaport, Basra is situated 130km from the Gulf and 550km south-east of Baghdad. Originally intended as a military base, the city was founded in AD637 by Caliph Omar. During the 16th century it became an important departure point for Arab trading ships sailing to the Far East. Basra's Bazaar in the Ashar district is full of old houses with balconies leaning over into the narrow streets and beautiful wooden facades in the style of old Arab architecture. It once contained a gold bazaar, selling fine pieces of gold jewellery, but it is not known whether this is still in existence. AFP PHOTO/ESSAM AL-SUDANI (Photo by ESSAM AL-SUDANI / AFP) (Photo by ESSAM AL-SUDANI/AFP via Getty Images)