The Iraqis keeping the mudhif tradition alive - in pictures

  • The vaulted arches of a mudhif, or traditional Iraqi reed house, found in the wetlands of southern Iraq. Photo: The Tigris River Protector NGO
    The vaulted arches of a mudhif, or traditional Iraqi reed house, found in the wetlands of southern Iraq. Photo: The Tigris River Protector NGO
  • The large buildings, with their barrel vaulted ceilings, are a symbol of pride. Photo: The Tigris River Protector NGO
    The large buildings, with their barrel vaulted ceilings, are a symbol of pride. Photo: The Tigris River Protector NGO
  • A new design of a reed house introduced by The Tigris River Protector NGO. Photo: The Tigris River Protector NGO
    A new design of a reed house introduced by The Tigris River Protector NGO. Photo: The Tigris River Protector NGO
  • A mudhif under construction. Photo: The Tigris River Protector NGO
    A mudhif under construction. Photo: The Tigris River Protector NGO
  • Craftsman Meeri Najim, in the middle in the second row. The craftsmen consider themselves the guardians of their unique history and culture which was nearly decimated by former dictator Saddam Hussein. Photo: Mr Najim
    Craftsman Meeri Najim, in the middle in the second row. The craftsmen consider themselves the guardians of their unique history and culture which was nearly decimated by former dictator Saddam Hussein. Photo: Mr Najim
  • Participants in a workshop learn how to design and build the reed houses, in Dhi Qar province in southern Iraq. Photo: The Tigris River Protector NGO
    Participants in a workshop learn how to design and build the reed houses, in Dhi Qar province in southern Iraq. Photo: The Tigris River Protector NGO
  • The interior of a reed house. Photo: Mr Najim
    The interior of a reed house. Photo: Mr Najim