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Halamata Cave: Echoes of Assyrian Kings

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Discover ancient Assyrian artistry at Halamata Cave near Duhok, where the Maltai reliefs whisper tales of kings and gods.

Halamata Cave, near Duhok, is an archaeological site featuring Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs dating back to 704-681 BC. Carved into a cliffside, the Maltai reliefs depict a procession of figures, offering a glimpse into the religious practices of the Assyrian Empire and King Sennacherib's canal system.

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

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain around the cave can be uneven and require some trekking.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning rock formations, the reliefs, and the surrounding landscape.
  • Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can affect accessibility and the cave's atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Duhok city center, hire a taxi to Halamata Cave. Negotiate the fare beforehand, with an approximate cost of 7,000 to 15,000 IQD. The taxi ride takes about 30 minutes. The driver will likely know the location, but having the coordinates (36.8372579, 42.940795) handy is recommended.

  • Public Transport

    From Duhok, take a bus or shared taxi towards Zakho. Get off approximately 30 kilometers away from Duhok, where you can find local transport heading towards Halamata. Inform the driver of your destination. The bus ride from Duhok to Zakho costs around 1,000 IQD, and the fare from Zakho to Halamata may vary, usually costing around 2,000 to 3,000 IQD.

Discover more about Halamata cave

Halamata Cave, located seven kilometers southwest of Duhok in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, holds the ancient Maltai reliefs, a set of four Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs. Carved into the cliffside above the village of Malthai, these carvings date back to 704-681 BC, during the reign of King Sennacherib. The reliefs, each approximately six meters long and two meters high, depict a procession of nine figures, believed to be the Assyrian king worshipping the main divinities in the Mesopotamian pantheon.These reliefs are associated with Sennacherib's northern canal system, built to carry water to his capital city of Nineveh. What makes the Maltai reliefs unique is their depiction of the king gesturing in front of anthropomorphic deities, unlike other Assyrian art that uses symbols. The cave and its surroundings offer a serene atmosphere and a chance to connect with the region's ancient past. While the reliefs have faced challenges, including vandalism and theft, ongoing conservation efforts aim to preserve this invaluable heritage.

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