Little Venice

    Probably one of the oddest named parts of the IZ [International Zone, or Green Zone], Little Venice is the neighborhood between the former US Embassy complex and the U.S. Chancellery building. It is believed to be nick-named Little Venice because of the many cement waterways, bridges and fountains that adorn its streets and park.  Once the playground of high ranking Iraqi officials and Hussein family members, it is now the private home to the leaders of the current Iraqi government and a number of others who are either associated with the U.S. military or governmental presence. It includes buildings such as Uday’s love palace, with a pool and a big outdoor screen for watching movies; the homes of Saddam’s daughters; and various other large estates all surrounded by fountains and large pools in a park-like setting.  At the far north end of Little Venice is the U.S. Chancellery where U.S. citizens can renew or apply for a passport and do other types of visa business.

    Access to Little Venice is controlled. A U.S. Embassy ID card or U.S. military ID is required to enter.