Halamata Cave: Echoes of Assyrian Kings

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Discover 3000-year-old Assyrian carvings at Halamata Cave near Duhok, a glimpse into Mesopotamia's ancient past and Sennacherib's canal system.

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Halamata cave

Halamata Cave, located near Duhok, Iraq, is an archaeological site famed for its Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs, the Maltai reliefs. Carved into a cliffside, these 3000-year-old carvings depict a procession of figures, offering a glimpse into the art and religious beliefs of the Assyrian Empire.

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 better grip while exploring the cave.
Bring water and snacks as facilities are limited near the cave.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the cave's history.
Be mindful of your surroundings and respect the natural environment during your visit.

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Getting There

Taxi

From Duhok city center, hire a taxi to take you to Halamata Cave. Negotiate the fare beforehand, as prices may vary; expect to pay around 10,000 to 15,000 IQD. The taxi ride takes approximately 30 minutes. The driver will likely know the location, but having the coordinates (36.8372579, 42.940795) handy is recommended. The taxi will drop you at the trailhead. From the trailhead follow the path into a small ravine, scramble down the rocky section, and follow the path for about two minutes until you see the carvings.
Walking

From the Zawa cable car station, follow the road west for approximately 2.5 kilometers. Look for five red arrows painted on a metal post on the right side of the road and a small rundown shed surrounded by bulk rubbish on the left. This marks the trailhead. From the trailhead follow the path into a small ravine, scramble down the rocky section, and follow the path for about two minutes until you see the carvings.

Discover more about Halamata cave

Nestled in the rugged landscapes of the Duhok Governorate, Halamata Cave holds the secrets of the ancient Assyrian civilization. The cave is located seven kilometers southwest of Duhok, overlooking the village of Geverke. The Maltai reliefs, a series of Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs, are carved into the cliff-face above the village of Malthai.The reliefs, dating back to 704-681 BCE, stretch six meters long and two meters high. They depict a procession of nine figures, showcasing Assyrian craftsmanship. The carvings portray the Assyrian king worshipping the main divinities of the Mesopotamian pantheon. This unique iconography, where the king is shown with anthropomorphic deities, distinguishes them from other Assyrian royal art. The reliefs are associated with the northern canal system built by King Sennacherib to carry water to his capital, Nineveh.British explorer Gertrude Bell first photographed the reliefs in 1909. Despite facing vandalism and theft in recent years, conservation efforts continue to preserve this invaluable heritage. A visit to Halamata Cave offers a memorable and educational experience, connecting visitors to the rich history of ancient Assyria.