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Halamata Cave: Echoes of Assyrian Kings

Explore ancient Assyrian carvings at Halamata Cave near Duhok, offering a unique glimpse into Mesopotamia's rich history and art.

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Discover the ancient Maltai reliefs at Halamata Cave near Duhok, Iraq, where Neo-Assyrian carvings depict a royal procession dating back to the reign of King Sennacherib (704-681 BCE). These unique sculptures offer a glimpse into the art, culture, and religious beliefs of the Assyrian Empire.

A brief summary to Halamata the sculptures - Halamata Cave

  • RWRW+23, Duhok, Duhok Governorate, IQ

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rocky terrain.
  • Bring a flashlight to fully appreciate the intricate details of the sculptures.
  • Consider visiting with a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history of the cave.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Duhok city center, a taxi is the most convenient way to reach Halamata Cave. Taxis are readily available throughout the city. Agree on a fare before starting your journey. A typical one-way trip to Halamata Cave costs around 7,000 IQD. The drive takes approximately 20-30 minutes. The taxi will drop you off near the trailhead.

  • Public Transportation

    Take a local minibus from Duhok city center towards the village of Halamata. Minibuses typically depart from the central bus station. The fare is approximately 500 IQD. Inform the driver that you are going to Halamata Cave. The journey will take around 20-30 minutes. From the village, you may need to walk approximately 1 km towards the sculptures, following signs or asking locals for directions.

  • Walking

    From the parking area, follow the red arrows painted on a metal post to find the trailhead. The trail might be confusing, so use GPS and satellite view to navigate. Scramble down the rocky section and follow the path for a couple of minutes until you see the site. Be prepared for a bit of a hike up and down the hill.

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Discover more about Halamata the sculptures - Halamata Cave

Halamata Cave, an archaeological site near Duhok in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, is home to the Maltai reliefs, a series of Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs. The cave is located approximately seven kilometers southwest of Duhok. The site consists of four Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs carved into the cliff-side. The reliefs, approximately six meters long and two meters high, depict a procession of nine figures. The carvings date back to the reign of King Sennacherib (704-681 BCE). They are associated with the northern canal system built to carry water to his capital city of Nineveh. The reliefs are unique because, unlike other examples of Assyrian royal art, they show the king gesturing in front of anthropomorphic deities, or gods in human form. In recent years, the site has faced challenges, including vandalism and theft. Despite these incidents, conservation efforts are ongoing to preserve this invaluable heritage for future generations. Visitors can explore the cave and admire the ancient sculptures, gaining insight into the rich history of the region.

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