Baghdad's Jewish Heritage: A Museum Blooms Amidst a Vanished Community

Baghdad's first Jewish museum has opened its doors, housed within the historic Shamash Jewish School, which was founded in 1928 on Al-Rashid Street. This initiative, a rare public celebration of Iraq's Jewish heritage, displays personal photographs, identity cards, and student records, illustrating the significant role Jews once played in Iraqi life and culture. The museum honors prominent figures like Sassoon Heskel, Iraq's first finance minister, and celebrated singer Salima Murad.

Despite no Jewish visitors having attended yet, the museum has seen a substantial influx of Iraqi visitors since its opening last month. Nabil Abdul Hameed, a 71-year-old resident, expressed his surprise and hope for a future where Jews can return and contribute to the country's revival. The project was spearheaded by Khalida Fouad Eliyahu, head of Iraq's small remaining Jewish community, with the aim of preserving historical landmarks.

Once comprising roughly a fifth of Baghdad's population under Ottoman rule, Iraq's Jewish community numbered around 150,000 in 1947. A significant exodus occurred between 1950 and 1952, with approximately 125,000 Jews emigrating to Israel. Today, only a handful of Jews reportedly remain in Baghdad, with around 90 of Kurdish origin residing in the Kurdistan region, living quietly for safety.