Erbil Citadel, Northern Iraq Travel Guide

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Explore the ancient Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited settlements.

The Erbil Citadel, also known as Qelat, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historic urban center in Erbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan. Rising 82 to 105 feet (25 to 32 meters) above the surrounding plain, this ancient tell (mound) is believed to be among the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, with evidence of occupation dating back to the 5th millennium BC.

A brief summary to Erbil Citadel

Erbil, Municipality One, Erbil Governorate, 44001, IQ
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Monday 9 am-7 pm
Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
Thursday 9 am-7 pm
Friday 9 am-7 pm
Saturday 9 am-7 pm
Sunday 9 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the Citadel's uneven terrain.
Visit during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) for pleasant weather.
Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.
Check the opening hours before your visit, as they may vary.

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Remains of Talsam gate

Explore Erbil Citadel on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Erbil Citadel, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Erbil Citadel is located in the heart of Erbil, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. As you approach the city center, look for the prominent landmark of Erbil Citadel. It is situated in the midst of Erbil's downtown area, making it a prominent landmark that's hard to miss. No entrance fee is required to visit Erbil Citadel.
Taxi

Taxis are widely available throughout Erbil and can be hailed on the street or arranged through hotels. Simply tell the driver that you wish to go to 'Qelat' or Erbil Citadel. The fare should range between 1,000 to 3,000 IQD depending on your starting point within the city. Ensure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey if the taxi does not use a meter.
Car

If you are driving, follow signs for the city center. The Citadel is located in the heart of Erbil. You can park your car at nearby designated parking areas. Be aware that parking may incur a small fee, typically around 1,000 to 2,000 IQD.

Discover more about Erbil Citadel

Erbil Citadel, locally called Qellat, stands as a remarkable testament to human history and resilience. This ancient city, perched atop a large, oval-shaped tell, has been inhabited for over 6,000 years, with its origins potentially stretching back to the Neolithic period. The Citadel has been controlled by Sumerian, Assyrian, Sassanid, Mongol, Christian, and Ottoman hands. Over the millennia, each civilization has left its mark, contributing to the Citadel's unique layered architecture and rich cultural heritage.As you explore the Citadel, you'll discover a captivating blend of historical houses, winding alleyways, and remnants of Ottoman-era architecture. The Mulla Afandi Mosque, rebuilt on the site of a 19th-century predecessor, stands as a testament to the Citadel's religious history. The Citadel also features a hammam that was built in 1775. The Kurdish Textile Museum showcases the region's vibrant textile traditions.In 2014, UNESCO recognized the Erbil Citadel as a World Heritage Site, acknowledging its outstanding universal value and its significance as a cultural landmark. Ongoing restoration efforts, in partnership with UNESCO, aim to preserve the Citadel's unique character and ensure its continued survival for generations to come.