A Middle Eastern city has been named as the capital with the worst quality of life by a new survey. The world's largest HR consultancy company - Mercer- publishes its Quality of Living Index every year.

The survey tries to identify the cities that provide the best standard of living around the world. The researchers take into account a number of criteria - such as the political and social environment, the economy, medical and health services, schools and education. as well as housing - to name but a few.

In its most recent survey, the company examined 450 cities worldwide, with one standing out as offering the worst standard of living.

Baghdad in Iraq is listed as the capital city with the lowest quality of life, which perhaps is unsurprising given its recent turbulent past.

The city has suffered severe infrastructural damage from recent brutal wars and continues to face security challenges on the ground today.

Iraq's capital has, though, much to offer for those brave enough to venture out there.

Its airport is well connected to other Middle Eastern hubs such as Dubai and Istanbul, making it much more accessible than in the past.

And the ancient city itself is full of cultural and historical monuments that make a visit more than worth the effort.

One place aspiring visitors should try to see is the Mustansiriya Madrasa - a school founded in medieval times, and that was once the most important centre for learning in the city.

Located on the banks of the river Tigris, the Madrassa is one of the only examples of classic Islamic art left in the city today.

Another is the Mausoleum of Abdul-Qadir Gilani, which consists of a central square, a mosque and libraries.

One of its defining architectural features is its towering dome, dating from the year 1535.

The religious shrine was named after the founder of the Qadiriyya Sufi order and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Potential travellers should be aware that the UK Foreign Office currently advises against all but essential travel to Baghdad.