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Halamata Cave: Echoes of Assyrian Kings

Discover ancient Assyrian carvings at Halamata Cave near Duhok, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

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Halamata Cave, near Duhok, is an archaeological site featuring Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs dating back to 704-681 BC. Carved into the rock face, the Maltai reliefs depict a procession of figures, offering a glimpse into the religious practices of the time. Despite some vandalism, the site remains an intriguing testament to the region's ancient past.

A brief summary to Halamata cave

  • RWPR+W83, Duhok, Duhok Governorate, IQ
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on uneven terrain to explore the cave and surrounding area.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as heavy rain can make the ground slippery.
  • Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid potential crowds.
  • Be aware that access to the site may be restricted due to recent fencing; check with local authorities for entry.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Duhok city center, hire a taxi to Halamata Cave. Negotiate the fare beforehand; a typical ride costs approximately 10,000 to 15,000 IQD. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Ensure the driver knows the location or provide the coordinates (36.8372579, 42.940795). Taxi fare from the city center is approximately $12.1 USD for a 5km ride.

  • Walking

    If you are near Zawa Mountain, you can walk to the cave. Follow local paths or ask locals for directions to RWPR+W83. The terrain may be uneven, so wear appropriate footwear. Note that the trail from the main road to the cave can be challenging to find.

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Discover more about Halamata cave

Halamata Cave, located approximately 7 kilometers southwest of Duhok in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, is an archaeological treasure. Overlooking the village of Geverke, the cave is home to the Maltai reliefs, four Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs carved into the cliffside. These carvings, dating from 704 to 681 BC, provide a unique insight into the Assyrian Empire during the reign of King Sennacherib. The reliefs, each measuring about six meters long and two meters high, depict a procession of nine figures. ArtStor notes that the reliefs showcase the Assyrian king worshipping the main divinities in the Mesopotamian pantheon. Uniquely, the reliefs portray the king gesturing in front of anthropomorphic deities, unlike other Assyrian art that uses symbols. These 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. While some carvings remain in good condition, the site has suffered from vandalism. In 2016, a Kurdish flag was spray-painted on the reliefs, and in 2018, a piece was stolen from the bedrock. Despite these incidents, much of the ancient landmark remains intact, offering a rewarding excursion for visitors interested in history and archaeology. Recent efforts include fencing the area and potential trail improvements to ease access.

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