In ancient times, Basra was the port from which Sinbad the Sailor departed on his voyages.
Located in the marsh area of southern Iraq (on the Arabian Gulf), this city of date palms, distinctive architecture and canals has an interesting historical museum and Sinbad's Island (which has gardens and a casino). Basra was extensively damaged in the Shia rebellions following the first Gulf War in 1991. Nearby is Qurna.
275 mi/440 km southeast of Baghdad.