Halamata Cave: Echoes of Assyrian Kings
Explore ancient Assyrian art at Halamata Cave near Duhok, home to the remarkable Maltai reliefs dating back to King Sennacherib.
Halamata Cave, nestled in the Duhok Governorate of Iraqi Kurdistan, is an archaeological treasure trove, holding the secrets of the Neo-Assyrian Empire. Located approximately 7 kilometers southwest of Duhok, the cave is home to the Maltai reliefs, a series of bas-reliefs carved into the cliffside. These carvings, dating back to the reign of King Sennacherib (704-681 BCE), depict a procession of nine figures, including the Assyrian king worshipping the main divinities of the Mesopotamian pantheon. The Maltai reliefs offer a unique insight into Assyrian art and religious beliefs. Unlike other Assyrian royal art, where the king is often shown worshipping symbols, these reliefs portray the king gesturing before anthropomorphic deities. The reliefs are associated with Sennacherib's northern canal system, an engineering marvel designed to carry water to his capital city of Nineveh. The carvings served to glorify the king and his divine mandate. Visiting Halamata Cave is an unforgettable journey through time, connecting visitors to the rich history and cultural heritage of ancient Assyria. Despite some instances of vandalism and theft in the past, the site remains a testament to the enduring legacy of this ancient civilization.
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes for the hike to the cave, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and have the best light for viewing and photographing the reliefs.
- Consider hiring a local guide in Duhok for a more in-depth understanding of the history and significance of the Maltai reliefs.
A brief summary to Halamata the sculptures - Halamata Cave
- RWRW+23, Duhok, Duhok Governorate, IQ
Getting There
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Taxi
From Duhok city center, a taxi is the most convenient way to reach Halamata Cave. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A typical one-way trip to the cave should cost approximately $17.5 USD. The ride takes about 30-40 minutes. The taxi will drop you off near the trailhead leading to the cave.
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Public Transport
To reach Halamata Cave via public transport, take a bus or shared taxi from Duhok to Zakho. From Zakho, find local transport (another bus or shared taxi) heading towards Halamata. Inform the driver of your destination. The bus from Duhok to Zakho costs around 1,000 IQD. The fare from Zakho to Halamata may vary, usually costing around 2,000 to 3,000 IQD.
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Walking
From the drop-off point, follow the trail towards the cave. The pin “Halamata the Assyrian sculptures” on Google Maps shows the correct location. Be aware that after rainfall the ground becomes incredibly sticky, so wear good footwear. The reliefs won't reveal themselves until the very last moment, so finding Halamata Cave might prove to be a bit of a challenge if you don't know what you are looking for.
