Without public announcement or debate, the authorities ordered the construction of one of Baghdad's most daring symbols of Saddam's long rule, the Arch of Triumph, consisting of two enormous groups of crossed swords, carried in the hands of the king or ruler in reference to Saddam Hussein, and is a monument today. One of the most important landmarks of the city, and indeed of Iraq in general, which stands in the center of the city, welcoming all its visitors.