Halamata cave, Al Jazeera Travel Guide

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Discover ancient Assyrian artistry at Halamata Cave near Duhok, featuring well-preserved Maltai reliefs dating back to King Sennacherib.

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Halamata cave

Halamata Cave, near Duhok, Iraq, is an archaeological site featuring the Maltai reliefs, ancient Assyrian carvings dating back to 704-681 BC. These well-preserved carvings offer a glimpse into the empire of King Sennacherib and their religious practices.

A brief summary to Halamata cave

RWPR+W83, Duhok, Duhok Governorate, IQ

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Halamata cave.

Wear sturdy shoes for the hike to the cave and exploring the rocky terrain.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities near the cave.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and optimal lighting for photography.
Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the cave's history and significance.
Use reliable maps and follow recommended paths to ensure a successful visit.

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Explore Halamata cave on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Halamata cave, mapped for you.

Getting There

Taxi

From Duhok city center, a taxi is the most convenient way to reach Halamata Cave. Negotiate the fare beforehand, with a typical cost ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 IQD. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Show the driver the location address (RWPR+W83, Duhok) or the name 'Halamata Cave'. The taxi will drop you at the trailhead, from where you'll hike to the cave.
Public Transport

To reach Halamata Cave using public transport, take a bus or shared taxi from Duhok city to the town of Zakho, which is approximately 30 kilometers away. The cost for the bus ride from Duhok to Zakho is around 1,000 IQD. Once in Zakho, you will need to find local transport (another bus or shared taxi) heading towards Halamata. Inform the driver of your destination; they typically know where the cave is located. The fare from Zakho to Halamata may vary, usually costing around 2,000 to 3,000 IQD. Once you arrive, you may have to walk about 1 kilometer to reach the cave entrance, as the final stretch may not be accessible by vehicle.
Walking

From the trailhead (coordinates can be found on Google Maps), follow the path into a small ravine veering off to the left. Scramble down the rocky section, and you'll encounter another cliff. Halamata Cave will be right below you. Choose the path descending along the edge of the mountainside and follow it for about two minutes. It will then branch off to the left. From there, you should be able to see the site. The hike is relatively short but requires good footwear due to the terrain.

Discover more about Halamata cave

Nestled in the Duhok Governorate of Iraq, Halamata Cave is an archaeological treasure showcasing the Maltai reliefs. These Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs, carved into the cliffside, date back to the reign of King Sennacherib (704-681 BCE). The reliefs are located approximately seven kilometers southwest of Duhok, overlooking the village of Geverke.The Maltai reliefs depict a procession of nine figures, believed to represent the Assyrian king paying homage to the main divinities of the Mesopotamian pantheon. These carvings are associated with Sennacherib's northern canal system, built to supply water to his capital, Nineveh. What makes these reliefs unique is the portrayal of the king gesturing before anthropomorphic deities, unlike other Assyrian art that uses symbols. The carvings stretch six meters long and two meters high, offering a tangible connection to the Neo-Assyrian period.Visiting Halamata Cave offers a unique opportunity to witness ancient artistry and explore the history of the Assyrian Empire. The cave's location on the slopes of Zawa Mountain adds to the experience, providing scenic views of the surrounding landscape. While the journey to the cave involves some unpaved roads and a bit of a hike, the reward is a close encounter with a significant piece of Mesopotamian history.