BAGHDAD (Dispatches) -- The historic house along the banks of the Tigris River in Baghdad, where legendary British crime novelist Agatha Christie lived for over a decade, stands today as a symbol of rich cultural heritage — yet it is dangerously deteriorating.
Located in the Karadat Maryam district, the vintage home now bears a stark warning sign: “Caution! Danger of collapse.” Despite its fragile state, the house continues to hold memories of Christie’s time in Iraq and remains a testament to the city’s deep historical roots.
Iraqi historian Adil Ardavi confirmed that Christie lived in Iraq for approximately 13 years during the early 20th century. “Many artifacts discovered by her husband, an expert in historical antiquities, are now preserved in museums,” Ardavi noted. He added that Christie, known for her adventurous spirit, frequently traveled across neighboring countries from her base in Iraq.
When choosing her Baghdad residence, Christie selected a house that epitomized traditional Baghdad architecture and offered a scenic view of the Tigris River, which likely inspired parts of her celebrated works. According to local lore, the house was once home to Ali, the brother of Iraq’s King Faisal I.
Christie’s connections to Iraq ran deep. Her famous novel Murder on the Orient Express includes scenes set in Baghdad — a city that once served as a vital stop on the historic train route linking Türkiye and Europe. Ardavi emphasized Christie’s affection for the Iraqi people, stating that her long residence in Baghdad fostered strong friendships within the local community.
Though the home now lies in ruins, there is hope for its restoration. Ardavi suggested that collaboration between the British Embassy in Baghdad and Iraqi authorities could transform the site into a museum honoring Christie’s legacy.
Hamza Ebu Sali, a bookseller from Baghdad’s renowned Mutanabbi Street—famous for its concentration of used bookstores—highlighted Christie’s lasting popularity in Iraq. “Iraqis have a great appreciation for her novels; her books consistently rank among the most sought-after,” he said.