RAW-NYC Architects has designed the first-of-its-kind bridge in the heart of Baghdad spanning over the Tigris River. Working with its philosophy of “Innovation. Sustainability. Technology.”, the Green Bridge of Baghdad project embraces and honors the achievements of ancient Mesopotamia which forms present-day Iraq.

The earliest known region to have a developed bureaucracy, monumental architecture, and advanced science and technology, ancient Mesopotamian ideas prevail in the fields of literacy, law, math, astronomy, and the gift of civilization itself. The impact of their scholarly legacy on the modern day has been profound. With the mighty Tigris running across it, the “Green Bridge of Baghdad” explores and illuminates more than 3000 years of ancient legacy.

The story began more than 8000 years ago in Mesopotamia. The Pedestrian Bridge is inspired from the heart – the seat of the deepest emotions and the universal logo of love. Divided into six zones, each celebrating a unique aspect of Mesopotamian achievements, the pedestrian bridge forms a floating urban park that functions as a retreat and transforms the cityscape of Baghdad for its citizens.

Mesopotamian achievements went further than the ones represented in the six zones of the park. For example, the Farming Path is designed as an urban farm for the community to learn about agricultural methods along with fruit trees, from which the Iraqis can pluck and eat native fruits. The Scent Path, planted with fragrant flowering bushes, acknowledges the first-ever advance towards the field of chemistry by a Babylonian noblewoman, through perfume-making.

RAW-NYC has designed the Green Bridge of Baghdad, nicknamed the “Heart of Baghdad”, to be more than a mobility corridor for vehicles and pedestrians. With water filters recycling Tigris River water for irrigation and heterotrophic algae working as an air purifier, the bridge forms an ecosystem of its own for the community.

The Green Bridge of Baghdad forms an iconic symbol that would articulate the idea of Baghdad for today and tomorrow - to show Iraq’s magnificent history to the world and the nation. The Heart of Baghdad would resonate with, and inspire the masses; it is a quest to create a landmark that will never cease in its intent to amaze.

Architect Raya Ani, founder and lead designer at RAW-NYC Architects, has received multiple accolades for her visionary and innovative projects, leading a firm considered as one of the Best Sustainable Architecture Firms in Dubai. Throughout her career, she has designed projects that are more than just structures following a brief; they are works of art following a vision for the future. Being one of the top Women Architects in Dubai, Raya believes in leading from a place of empathy, towards the people and the environment.