National Museum, Diyala Region Travel Guide

The National Museum in Duhok serves as a repository of Kurdish history and culture, displaying artifacts unearthed in the Duhok region. Established in 1989, the museum quickly became a prominent cultural institution in Iraq. After being shut down in 1991 during the Kurdish uprising, its artifacts were moved to Baghdad, except for two Parthian statues that local authorities safeguarded. The museum reopened in 2013 and currently displays around 700 artifacts, with thousands more in storage awaiting a larger exhibition space. The museum's collection spans from the Stone Age to the Islamic era, featuring tools dating back to 12,000 BCE. Visitors can explore pottery, textiles, historical documents, and other relics that narrate the story of the Kurdish people. The serene atmosphere and well-organized galleries provide a reflective experience for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The museum also highlights the traditions, struggles, and triumphs of the Kurdish community through thoughtfully curated exhibits.While the museum building itself is small, it is home to many civilizations that have inhabited the area. The artifacts on display include Roman coins, cuneiform texts, stone vases, oil lamps, glass bottles, medieval books, Greek texts, Neolithic statues, and assorted jewelry. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of the Kurdish people.