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Sherwana Castle: A Kurdish Fortress

Explore Sherwana Castle: A historic Kurdish fortress in Kalar, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the region's rich heritage.

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Sherwana Castle, also known as Shirwanah Castle, is a historical landmark in Kalar, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Built in 1866 by Mohamed Pasha Jaff, it served as both an administrative center and a residence for the Jaff family, playing a significant role in Kurdish history.

A brief summary to Sherwana Castle قەڵای شێروانە

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photography.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the castle grounds can be uneven.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and scenic views.
  • Check local opening hours before your visit, as they may vary.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Kalar city center, Sherwana Castle is approximately 3 kilometers away. Exit the town towards the main road leading out and follow the road signs pointing towards the castle. The walk is estimated to be 30-40 minutes, so wear comfortable shoes.

  • Public Transport

    From Sulaymaniyah, take a minibus or shared taxi to Kalar from the main bus station. The journey typically takes about 1 hour. The fare is around 2,000 IQD (approximately $1.50 USD) per person. Upon arriving in Kalar, you can walk to Sherwana Castle (about 3 km from the town center) or hire a local taxi for around 3,000 IQD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Kalar. A short taxi ride from Kalar city center to Sherwana Castle will cost approximately 3,000 IQD. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Sherwana Castle قەڵای شێروانە

Sherwana Castle, or Shirwanah Castle, stands as a proud testament to Kurdish history and architectural prowess in Kalar, within the Sulaymaniyah Governorate of Iraq. Constructed in 1866 by Mohamed Pasha Jaff, a Kurdish leader appointed by the Ottoman Empire, the castle served as the administrative hub for the local Jaff tribe and a residence for the Pasha and his family. The castle's strategic location on a high mound, approximately 12.30 meters in height, provided a vantage point to monitor the surrounding region. Its architecture blends Assyrian, Babylonian, and Sasanian influences, incorporating mud bricks, roasted bricks, stones, plaster, and walnut wood. The castle comprises two floors and a pavilion-like third floor, featuring rooms, halls, arched windows, and geometrically structured hearths. Throughout its history, Sherwana Castle has witnessed various conflicts and natural disasters, including military activity in the 1990s, heavy rains in 2014, and an earthquake in 2017. Restoration efforts have been undertaken to preserve this cultural treasure, which attracts thousands of tourists annually. Visitors can explore the castle's grounds, climb the stairs to its base, and discover a small museum housing artifacts unearthed from the site, offering insights into the region's rich past. The castle is particularly enchanting at night, illuminated with colorful lights that create a sense of safety and happiness.

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