BAGHDAD (AP).- Google is documenting Iraq’s National
Museum and will post photographs of its ancient treasures on the Internet early
next year, Google chief Eric Schmidt announced. The museum was ransacked in the
chaotic aftermath of Saddam Hussein’s ouster in April 2003, and only reopened to
visitors early this year. Schmidt, who toured the museum with U.S.
Ambassador Christopher Hill on Tuesday, said it was important for the world to
see Iraq’s rich heritage and contribution to world culture. “The history
of the beginning of — literally — civilization is made right here and is
preserved here in this museum,” Schmidt said at a ceremony attended by
Iraqi officials.