Iraq Road Trip Itinerary
Explore Iraq on a 14-day road trip from Baghdad! This journey will take you through some of the most beautiful and historic towns of Iraq, including Sherwana Hotel, Kirkuk, Mosul, Samarra, and Ad Diwaniyah. This route is approximately 2346 km and is best completed in 14 days. The best time to drive is during the cooler months of the year.
This road trip is suitable for any driver, as the route is mainly on well-maintained roads. However, please be aware that overall road conditions in Iraq are poor.
Along the way, you will find many UNESCO Heritage Monuments, such as the Great Mosque of Samarra, the Great Mosque of Mosul, and the Al-Askari Mosque in Samarra.
This road trip can be managed with a moderate budget, making it an ideal way to explore Iraq. So why not plan your Iraq Road Trip today?
14
number of days
2,273 km
route length
fair
budget
survivalist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
extreme
accident level
START
Baghdad
Distance 2,273 km
Driving time 32.8 h
Pace: fast
681.8 kWh
Airports
BGW
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Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, is an ideal starting point for the "Iraq Road Trip". This vibrant city is full of popular attractions, such as the Al-Kadhimain Shrine, the Al-Shaheed Monument, and the Baghdad Zoo. The city is a great place to start your road trip, as it offers plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
The closest international airport to Baghdad is Baghdad International Airport (BGW), located just 17 km from the city center. There are a number of car rental companies operating out of the airport, making it easy to get a car for your road trip.
From Baghdad, you can explore the rest of Iraq, taking in the archaeological sites at Babylon and Ur, the historic city of Mosul, and the ancient city of Erbil. There are also plenty of other sights to see on your road trip, including the stunning mountains of Kurdistan, the beautiful lakes of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, and the ancient ruins of the ancient Assyrian city of Nineveh.
Whether you're looking for adventure, culture, or just a relaxing road trip, Baghdad is the perfect place to start your "Iraq Road Trip". With its vibrant culture, diverse attractions, and easy access to the rest of the country, it's the perfect place to begin your journey.
1
Baghdad
- Sherwana
Distance 219 km
Driving time 3.7 h
Pace: modest
56.9 kWh
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Embark on a unique road trip from Baghdad, Iraq to Sherwana Hotel! This 234 km journey will take you less than 4 hours and is part of a larger tour. Along the way, you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places in Iraq. From Baghdad, you will pass by the ancient city of Ctesiphon, the ruins of Babylon and the ruins of the ancient city of Hatra. These sites offer a unique glimpse into the rich history of the region.
As you continue your journey, you will come across the ruins of the ancient city of Nimrud, the ruins of the ancient city of Nineveh and the ruins of the ancient city of Uruk. All these sites are located close to each other and offer a unique insight into the past. You will also be able to explore the ruins of the ancient city of Ur and the ruins of the ancient city of Eridu.
Finally, you will reach Sherwana Hotel, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Here, you can also explore the ruins of the ancient city of Sumer and the ruins of the ancient city of Akkad. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Baghdad to Sherwana Hotel!
Sherwana - Iraq - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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2
Sherwana
- Sulaymaniyah
Distance 136 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: modest
35.2 kWh
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Welcome to the Sherwana Hotel, Iraq! Get ready for an amazing road trip experience as you journey from Sherwana Hotel to Sulaymaniyah. This 136 km long drive will take you less than 2 hours, but you will be amazed by the sights and attractions you will see along the way.
Start your journey with a visit to the ancient ruins of the city of Ur, located in the desert of southern Iraq. Here, you can explore the remains of a 4,000-year-old Sumerian city, including the famous ziggurat of Ur.
Continue your journey to the city of Hillah, where you can visit the ruins of Babylon, the ancient city of Nebuchadnezzar. Here, you can explore the ruins of the famous Ishtar Gate and the Temple of Marduk.
Your next stop is the city of Najaf, home to the Shrine of Imam Ali, the most sacred site in Shia Islam. Here, you can explore the grand mosque and the tomb of Imam Ali.
Finally, you will arrive in Sulaymaniyah, a city known for its vibrant culture and art scene. Here, you can explore the Sulaymaniyah Museum, the Sulaymaniyah Art Gallery, and the Sulaymaniyah Zoo.
This is just one of the stages of your larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready to explore the amazing sights and attractions of Iraq!
Sulaymaniyah - Iraq - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Sulaymaniyah
- Kirkuk
Distance 112 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: fast
33.5 kWh
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Are you ready to embark on an amazing road trip from Sulaymaniyah to Kirkuk? This 112km journey, which takes less than two hours, will take you through some of the most interesting places in Iraq.
Start your trip in Sulaymaniyah, a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. Take a stroll through the bustling bazaars and admire the unique architecture of the city. Visit the Sulaymaniyah Museum to learn more about the city’s history and culture.
Continue your journey to the city of Kirkuk, where you can explore the ancient ruins of the city. Take a walk through the Old City and visit the Citadel of Kirkuk, the oldest part of the city. Don’t forget to visit the Kirkuk Museum, where you can learn more about the city’s history.
Make sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery along the way. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey now and explore the wonders of Sulaymaniyah and Kirkuk!
Kirkuk - Iraq - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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4
Kirkuk
- Erbil
Distance 95 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: fast
28.6 kWh
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Are you looking for an amazing road trip? Then you should definitely consider the one that starts in Kirkuk and ends in Erbil! This 107 km journey can be completed in less than two hours and will provide you with the opportunity to explore some of the most interesting sites in Iraq.
One of the most popular attractions on this route is the Citadel of Erbil, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient fortress is a great place to learn about the history of the region and take some stunning photos. Along the way, you will also pass some beautiful landscapes, so make sure you keep an eye out for some great photo opportunities.
At the end of your journey, you will arrive in Erbil, where you can explore the city's vibrant markets and take in some of the local culture. There is also a range of accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites available for those who wish to stay a little longer.
For more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the Itinerary for this stage!
Erbil - Iraq - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Erbil
- Mosul
Distance 84 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: fast
25.1 kWh
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Welcome to the Erbil - Mosul stage of your road trip! This 84 km journey will take you fewer than 2 hours, and you will be able to visit some of the most interesting places in Iraq.
Starting in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region, you can visit the Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the world, as well as the many historical bazaars and souks, such as the Grand Bazaar, the Ghazi Street Bazaar, and the Souk al-Muhallabiyeh.
Afterwards, your journey will take you to the city of Mosul, located on the banks of the Tigris river. Here, you can visit the Great Mosque of al-Nuri, the Tomb of the Prophet Jonah, and the Mosul Museum.
We hope that you will enjoy this stage of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage.
Mosul - Iraq - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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6
Mosul
- Tikrit
Distance 228 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: fast
68.5 kWh
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Welcome to the road trip stage from Mosul to Tikrit! This stage of your tour will take you through some of the most interesting places in Iraq. Starting in Mosul, you can visit the Great Mosque of al-Nuri, the 12th century mosque with its iconic leaning minaret, or the Umayyad Mosque, a 9th century mosque with its beautiful architecture. From there, you will drive 232 km to Tikrit, a journey that will take you less than 3 hours.
In Tikrit, you can explore the remains of Saddam Hussein's palace, built in the 1980s. You can also visit the ancient archaeological site of Tell al-Lahm, which dates back to the Bronze Age. Finally, you can take a walk along the Tigris River and enjoy the stunning views of the riverbanks.
These are only some of the places you can visit during this stage of your tour. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great journey!
Tikrit - Iraq - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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7
Tikrit
- Samarra
Distance 68 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
20.5 kWh
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Embark on a 73km road trip from Tikrit to Samarra, Iraq! This drive will take you less than an hour, and you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places in the region. Start your journey in Tikrit, where you can visit the ruins of ancient Babylon and the Saddam Hussein Mosque. As you drive, you will pass through the city of Al-Daur and the ruins of ancient Hatra. Further along the route, you will find the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ashur, where you can explore the remains of the ancient city. Finally, you will arrive in Samarra, home to the Great Mosque of Samarra and the Al-Askari Shrine. Along the way, you can take in the scenic views of the Tigris River and the surrounding countryside. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the journey! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage.
Samarra - Iraq - Asia - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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8
Samarra
- Kerbala
Distance 231 km
Driving time 3.5 h
Pace: fast
69.4 kWh
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Welcome to the road trip stage from Samarra to Kerbala Technical School for Girls! This is a 261 km journey that can be completed in less than 4 hours. Along the way, you will get to visit some of the most interesting places Iraq has to offer.
Starting in Samarra, you can visit the Great Mosque of al-Mutawakkil, a 9th-century mosque with a unique spiral minaret. Then, you can head to Al-Askari Mosque, a shrine to two of the most important figures in Shia Islam.
Your next stop is in Kifl, a small town on the Euphrates River. Here, you can visit the Tomb of the Prophet Ezekiel, a sacred site for both Jews and Muslims.
Finally, you can end your trip in Kerbala Technical School for Girls. This school offers a variety of educational and vocational programs to empower young women.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. We hope you enjoy your trip!
Kerbala - Iraq - Asia - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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9
Kerbala
- Al Diwaniyah
Distance 144 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: fast
43.3 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Kerbala Technical School for Girls in Iraq to Ad Diwaniyah? This 144 km journey will take you less than 3 hours, and you will be able to discover some of the most interesting places in these two locations.
In Kerbala, you can visit the Imam Husayn Shrine, one of the most important religious sites for Shi'ite Muslims. The shrine includes the tomb of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. The site also includes the mausoleum of Abbas ibn Ali, Husayn's half-brother.
In Ad Diwaniyah, you can visit the Al-Hindiya Palace, which was built in 1869. This palace is a great example of traditional Iraqi architecture and is now a museum. You can also visit the Al-Hindiya Park, which is a large public park with many trees and a lake.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!
Al Diwaniyah - Iraq - Asia - Road Trip - www.defense.gov
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10
Al Diwaniyah
- Nasiriyah
Distance 191 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
57.2 kWh
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Embark on a road trip stage from Ad Diwaniyah to Nasiriyah, Iraq, a 195km journey that takes less than two hours. Get ready to explore the most interesting places in these two locations!
In Ad Diwaniyah, make sure to visit the Grand Mosque, located in the center of the city. The mosque is known for its beautiful architecture and its large courtyard with a fountain. You can also visit the historic Al-Hussein Castle, which is located on the banks of the Euphrates River.
In Nasiriyah, make sure to visit the ancient Sumerian city of Uruk, which is located on the banks of the Euphrates. Uruk was one of the oldest cities in the world and is home to some of the most impressive archaeological sites. You can also visit the famous Tell Nasiriyah, which is an archaeological site with a 3,000-year-old temple.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Ad Diwaniyah to Nasiriyah!
Nasiriyah - Iraq - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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11
Nasiriyah
- Basra
Distance 197 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: fast
59.1 kWh
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Welcome to the road trip stage from Nasiriyah to Basra! This 197 km route will take you fewer than 2 hours to complete.
Start your journey in Nasiriyah, where you can visit the ancient ruins of Tell al-Lahm, the birthplace of the prophet Abraham, and the majestic Great Mosque of Nasiriyah.
Continue your journey through the desert and stop in the city of Samawah. Here you can visit the archaeological site of Tell al-Hiba, the ruins of the ancient Sumerian city of Uruk and the mausoleum of Imam Ali al-Hadi.
Then it's time to drive to the city of Qurna, where you can visit the ruins of the ancient city of Uruk, the archaeological site of Tell al-Lahm, and the famous Shrine of Imam Ali al-Hadi.
Finally, you will arrive in Basra, the biggest city in southern Iraq. Visit the Basra Grand Mosque and the Basra Museum, and take a stroll through the city's bustling markets.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Basra - Iraq - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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12
Basra
- Al Qurnah
Distance 73 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
22.0 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Basra to Al Qurnah! This 74km journey will take you less than an hour to complete, and along the way you can visit some of the most interesting places in Iraq. Starting in Basra, you can explore the ancient ruins of Uruk and the beautiful Sheikhan Mosque. Then, you can head to the historic city of Nasiriyah, known for its archaeological sites and the ancient city of Ur. Finally, you'll reach Al Qurnah, home to the Garden of Eden and the Tomb of Noah, as well as a variety of other attractions. Along the way, you can find plenty of accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Basra to Al Qurnah!
Al Qurnah - Iraq - Asia - Road Trip - ویکیپدیا
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13
Al Qurnah
- Al Kut
Distance 299 km
Driving time 4.0 h
Pace: fast
89.8 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! This stage of your journey will take you from Al Qurnah, Iraq to Kut, covering a distance of 301 km in less than 4 hours. Get ready to explore some of the most interesting places in these two cities!
In Al Qurnah, don't miss the chance to visit the ruins of the ancient city of Ur, one of the most important archaeological sites in Iraq. You'll also find the Mausoleum of Prophet Ezekiel, a holy site for both Jews and Muslims, and the ancient Sumerian city of Abu Shahrain.
Once you arrive in Kut, you'll find a variety of attractions, including the ancient city of Wasit, the Mound of Tell Harmal, and the ancient city of As-Samawah. There's also the Kut Citadel, a fortress built in the 17th century, and the Al-Hindiya Barrage, an impressive dam built in the late 19th century.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Al Kut - Iraq - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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14
Al Kut
- Baghdad
Distance 195 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: fast
58.5 kWh
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Take an unforgettable road trip from Kut, Iraq to Baghdad! The 195km journey takes just under 3 hours, so you can enjoy the amazing sights of Iraq on the way. Start your journey in Kut, an ancient city with a long history, and take the time to explore its historical sites. As you make your way to Baghdad, you'll pass through a number of beautiful landscapes, including the Diyala River and the Zagros Mountains. Along the way, you'll also get the chance to explore some of the most interesting places in Iraq, such as the ancient city of Babylon, the city of Samarra, and the ancient city of Ctesiphon. Once you reach Baghdad, you'll find a variety of attractions to explore, including the Iraqi National Museum and the Great Mosque of Kufa. For a truly memorable experience, don't forget to check out the ancient ruins of Babylon and the Ziggurat of Ur. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy the journey!
Baghdad
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Ending the "Iraq Road Trip" in the city of Baghdad is a fitting way to cap off the journey. Located in the heart of Iraq, Baghdad is a bustling city with plenty to offer. The city is full of both historical and modern attractions.
For those looking to get a glimpse into Baghdad's past, the Baghdad National Museum is a must-see. The museum is home to a wide array of artifacts that date back to ancient Mesopotamian times. Visitors can view a variety of sculptures, carvings, and artifacts that tell the story of the city's long and rich history.
Baghdad is also home to a variety of modern attractions. One of the most popular is the Baghdadi Mall. This shopping center has something for everyone, from luxury boutiques to international brands. It is also home to a variety of cafes and restaurants, making it the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
For those looking to explore outside the city, there are plenty of options. The Tigris and Euphrates rivers offer plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. There are also a variety of historical sites located just outside the city, including the ancient city of Ctesiphon.
For those looking to fly into Baghdad, the closest international airport is Baghdad International Airport (BGW). From there, travelers can book a rental car and make their way through the city.
Baghdad is a city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you're looking to explore its historical sites or simply take in the city's modern attractions, Baghdad is the perfect destination to wrap up the "Iraq Road Trip".
Iraq Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Baghdad
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End:
Baghdad
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Distance:
2,273 km
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Stay:
14 days
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Getting there:
Baghdad International Airport / New Al Muthana Air Base (BGW)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October, November
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an enthralling 14-day Road Trip across Iraq, a journey spanning approximately 2,346 km from the bustling capital of Baghdad to historical gems such as Kirkuk, Mosul, Samarra, and Ad Diwaniyah. This adventure offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Iraq's rich cultural heritage, witness its stunning landscapes, and explore ancient sites that tell the story of civilizations long past. The Roads are generally well-maintained, providing a comfortable driving experience for travelers.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Baghdad: Your journey begins in a city that was once the center of the Islamic Golden Age, with sites like the National Museum of Iraq, which houses priceless artifacts, and the iconic Al-Mutanabbi Street, a hub for book lovers.
- Kirkuk: A city that stands as a testament to Iraq's diverse ethnic tapestry, Kirkuk is home to a historic citadel that offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the area's rich past.
- Mosul: A city rising from the ashes, Mosul invites visitors to witness its recovery and to see landmarks such as the rebuilt Great Mosque of Mosul and the historic Nineveh ruins nearby.
- Samarra: This ancient city is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Great Mosque of Samarra with its famous Malwiya Tower, an architectural marvel, and the Al-Askari Mosque, a holy site in Shia Islam with its golden dome.
- Ad Diwaniyah: A less-traveled destination that offers an authentic experience of Iraqi culture and warm hospitality.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal time for a Road Trip in Iraq is between October and April when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for travel, escaping the scorching summer heat that can exceed 40°C (104°F).
Potential Risks:
Travelers should be aware of varying Road conditions throughout Iraq, and remain vigilant about the security situation, as some regions may experience instability. Always check travel advisories and have contingency plans in place.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Accommodation options such as the Sherwana Castle Hotel in Kirkuk offer a chance to stay in historically rich settings without breaking the bank.
- Along the route, Roadtrippers will encounter numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Ashur, Hatra, and Babylon.
- Access to fuel and supplies is generally good in urban areas, but it's important to stock up when traveling through more remote regions where services may be sparse.
A good choice for:
A Road Trip through Iraq is a rare opportunity to explore a nation where ancient history and contemporary life intersect. With thoughtful preparation and a sense of adventure, travelers can embark on a journey that is both profoundly moving and deeply educational, uncovering the layers of Iraq’s multifaceted identity.
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