The main subdivision in Iraq is the 18 muhafazah, also known as governorates or provinces. Before 1976 they were called liwas, or banner).
Iraq lies between latitudes 29° and 38° N, and longitudes 39° and 49° E (a small area lies west of 39°). Spanning 437,072 km2 (168,754 sq mi), it is the 58th-largest country in the world. It is comparable in size to the US state of California, and somewhat larger than Paraguay.
Iraq religion is Islam. Muslims (those who practice Islam) account for a whopping 97% of the Iraqi population. However, the Catholic Religion is allowed to practice in Iraq. This year 2008, Christmas was a recognized holiday.