Under the supervision of Professor Dr. Laith Majeed Hussein, Director of the Center for the Revival of Arab Scientific Heritage at the University of Baghdad, the Department of Pure Sciences at the Center organized a workshop on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, held in Professor Nabeela Abdul Muneim Dawood Hall, that attended by a number of professors and academics. The workshop,entitled “Historical Factors Behind the Emergence of Cities in the Upper Euphrates Region,” was chaired by Professor Dr. Taha Subti Ibrahim, Head of the Department of Pure Sciences at our Center. The lecture was delivered by Professor Dr. Saadi Ibrahim Al-Darraji, a retired faculty member of the Center, who discussed the most significant historical factors that contributed to the establishment and continuity of settlement in the Upper Euphrates cities. Among these factors were geographical, economic, administrative and political, military, and social aspects.
Dr. Al-Darraji particularly emphasized the economic factor, especially trade and ancient transportation routes, as well as traditional industries and the importance of agricultural activity in the cities of the region. He also highlighted the historical significance of ancient urban centers with deep roots in history, such as Anah, Haditha, Al-Wus, and Jubbah, noting that most of them emerged along the Euphrates on small fortified islands dating back at least to the Assyrian era, with continuous habitation throughout the Sasanian, Roman, and Islamic periods. The researcher further discussed archaeological sites and major cultural landmarks in the cities of the Upper Euphrates, presenting examples of military, religious, and public architecture. The workshop included several academic discussions and contributions related to the topic. In conclusion, the Center’s administration expressed its appreciation to the distinguished researcher, wishing him continued success in his scholarly endeavors.
