Officially, it’s called the International Zone, a 12-sq-km, heavily fortified compound that houses Iraqi government offices, military bases and the largest US embassy in the world. Attractions within its walls include Zawra Park , Baghdad Zoo , Saddam Hussein’s gaudy Republican Palace , Martyr’s Monument , Monument to the Unknown Soldier and the Swords of Qadisiyah – also known as the Hands of Victory – commemorating Saddam’s ‘victory’ over Iran.
