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Erbil Citadel: A Timeless Icon

Explore the ancient Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 8,000 years of history, offering a unique glimpse into Mesopotamia's past.

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The Erbil Citadel, also known as Qalat, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historical heart of Erbil, rising dramatically from the surrounding plain. Believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, with evidence of occupation dating back to the 5th millennium BC, it offers a captivating journey through millennia of history.

A brief summary to Erbil Citadel

  • Erbil, Municipality One, Erbil Governorate, 44001, IQ
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the Citadel's uneven and historic streets.
  • Visit during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) for pleasant weather.
  • Check out the Kurdish Textile Museum to learn about the region's rich textile heritage.
  • Visit the Citadel in the morning to experience traditional Kurdish breakfasts at nearby cafes.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From most central locations in Erbil, the Citadel is within walking distance. It's situated in the heart of downtown Erbil, making it a prominent and easily visible landmark. As you approach the city center, look for the towering walls of the Citadel. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Erbil and can be hailed on the street or arranged through your hotel. Simply tell the driver you want to go to 'Erbil Citadel'. The fare should range from 1,000 to 3,000 IQD depending on your starting point within the city; negotiate the fare beforehand if the taxi doesn't use a meter.

  • Public Transport

    While public transportation in Erbil isn't highly developed, mini-buses and shared taxis operate in the city. Locals can guide you to the nearest stop to catch a ride to the Citadel vicinity. Fares are typically low but may require some local language skills to navigate.

Unlock the Best of Erbil Citadel

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Discover more about Erbil Citadel

Erbil Citadel, locally known as Qalat, stands as a remarkable testament to human history, dominating Erbil's skyline. This ancient tell, or settlement mound, has been inhabited for potentially 8,000 years, with its origins tracing back to the earliest days of urbanization in Mesopotamia. The Citadel has been controlled by Sumerians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, and the Ottoman Empire. Rising between 82 and 105 feet (25 and 32 meters) above the surrounding plain, the Citadel occupies an area of 1,100,000 square feet (102,000 square meters). Its unique oval shape is the result of countless generations building upon the remains of their predecessors, using mud bricks that gradually crumbled and elevated the site. In 2014, UNESCO recognized the Citadel's outstanding universal value, inscribing it as a World Heritage site. Wandering through the Citadel's winding alleyways reveals a rich tapestry of historical and cultural treasures. Traditional brick courtyard houses, a 13th-century mosque (rebuilt in the 1950s), and the Qassim Agha Abdullah hammam (bathhouse), dating back to 1775, offer glimpses into the lives of those who once called this place home. The Kurdish Textile Museum showcases the region's rich textile heritage, while the Erbil Citadel Visitor Center provides valuable insights into the Citadel's history and ongoing restoration efforts. Today, the Erbil Citadel is more than just a historical site; it's a vibrant community where tradition and modernity intertwine. While restoration efforts continue to revitalize the Citadel, it remains a powerful symbol of Kurdish identity and a must-see destination for anyone seeking to experience the rich history and culture of Iraqi Kurdistan.

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