Erbil Citadel: A Timeless Fortress
Explore Erbil Citadel: An ancient, UNESCO-listed site with 8,000 years of history, stunning architecture, and panoramic city views.
The Erbil Citadel, also known as Qalat, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a historic tell in the heart of Erbil, Iraqi Kurdistan. Rising dramatically from the surrounding plains, it's believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, with evidence of occupation dating back to the 5th millennium BC.
A brief summary to قلعة اربيل
- Kurdish Flag, Erbil, Municipality One, Erbil Governorate, IQ
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the best light for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone paths can be uneven and require some walking.
- Take time to explore the small shops and cafes within the citadel for unique local crafts and snacks.
- Check for any cultural events or festivals happening during your visit to experience Kurdish traditions firsthand.
Getting There
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Walking
The Erbil Citadel is located in the heart of Erbil, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. As you approach the Citadel, you'll notice its prominent position, rising high above the city. The main entrance is easily identifiable. From Jalil Khayat Mosque, it is a walking distance away.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Erbil. Simply tell the driver you wish to go to 'Qelat Erbil' (Erbil Citadel). A typical fare from within the city center should range from 1,000 to 3,000 IQD, but it's always wise to negotiate the fare beforehand if the taxi doesn't have a meter. Ride-hailing apps like Careem are also available. Expect to pay around 15 USD for a taxi from Erbil International Airport.
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Car
If driving, follow signs for the city center. Designated parking areas are available near the Citadel, with a small fee of around 1,000 to 2,000 IQD. The best place to park is near the back entrance.
Discover more about قلعة اربيل
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
قلعة اربيل
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Explore Erbil Citadel: An ancient, UNESCO-listed site with 8,000 years of history, stunning architecture, and panoramic city views.
هەولێرەکەم
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Escape to Erbil City Park: A tranquil oasis in the heart of Kurdistan's vibrant capital, perfect for relaxation and recreation.
Iraq kurdistan region Tour Guide - Karwan Wahed
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Iraqi Kurdistan Tour Guide- Karwan Wahed
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Machko caffe
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Experience Kurdish culture and history at Machko Caffe, Erbil's iconic teahouse since 1940, near the ancient Citadel.
Qaysari Bazaar
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Explore Erbil's Qaysari Bazaar: A historic marketplace brimming with Kurdish culture, traditional crafts, and the flavors of the region.
Erbîl qayseri bazar
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Explore Erbil's historic Qaysari Bazaar: a vibrant hub of Kurdish culture, commerce, and timeless traditions in the heart of the city.
Arab Neighborhood Old Buildings
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Shekh Mustafa Naqishbandi
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Experience the heart of Erbil at Shekh Mustafa Naqishbandi Square, a vibrant hub connecting history, culture, and community.
The statue of Ibn al-Mustawfi
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A tribute to the great Kurdish historian Ibn al-Mustawfi, showcasing Erbil's rich cultural and intellectual heritage.
Downtown - Erbil
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Experience modern shopping and local culture at Downtown Erbil, a vibrant hub in the heart of the Kurdistan Region.
Erbil Civilization Museum
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Explore millennia of Mesopotamian history at the Erbil Civilization Museum, showcasing artifacts from the Stone Age to the Islamic era.
تمثال الجواهري
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A tribute to the great Iraqi poet Mohammed Mahdi Al-Jawahiri, offering a space for reflection and cultural appreciation in Erbil.
Zaniary Towers - زانیاری تاوەر
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Experience modern living in Erbil at Zaniary Towers, offering stunning views and convenient access to the city's attractions.
General Directorate of Antiquities in Kurdistan
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Unmissable attractions to see
Erbil Citadel
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Explore the ancient Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited settlements.
هەولێرەکەم
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Escape to Erbil's serene urban oasis: هەولێرەکەم City Park, a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and cultural experiences in Kurdistan's vibrant capital.
Kurdish Textile Museum
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Discover the vibrant art of Kurdish weaving at the Kurdish Textile Museum, nestled within the ancient Erbil Citadel.
Erbil amphitheater
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Discover the ancient echoes at Erbil Amphitheater, a window into the region's vibrant cultural heritage and historical significance.
The castle Fountains and gardens
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A serene escape in Erbil, blending dancing fountains, lush gardens, and historical significance near the ancient Citadel.
نافورەکانی پارکی شار ـ Erbil Fountain
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A tranquil fountain in Erbil's Minaret Park, blending modern beauty with the city's ancient heritage near the iconic Choly Minaret.
The Fountains of Shar Park
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Escape to Erbil's heart at The Fountains of Shar Park: a tranquil oasis with dancing fountains, lush gardens, and serene pathways for all to enjoy.
Governorate garden
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Find serenity in the heart of Erbil at the Governorate Garden, a peaceful escape with beautiful flowers and lush greenery.
Clock Tower ( Tawerî Katjmêr )
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Discover Erbil's iconic Clock Tower: a timeless landmark blending history and culture in the heart of the city's vibrant atmosphere.
حديقة الوافير
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Escape to Erbil's Al-Wafir Park: A tranquil urban oasis with lush greenery, perfect for relaxation, family outings, and cultural immersion.
Bakhi Shar Park
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Escape to Bakhi Shar Park, a tranquil garden oasis in the heart of Erbil, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature's beauty.
Bazar park
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Escape the city buzz at Erbil's Bazar Park: a green haven with vibrant flowers, peaceful paths, and community spirit.
دەرگای موسڵ
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Escape to دەرگای موسڵ Park in Erbil for a refreshing green retreat, perfect for relaxation and leisurely activities in a tranquil setting.
Swary Qishla قشلەی هەولێر سواری
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Explore Swary Qishla in Erbil, a historical landmark reflecting the city's cultural richness and architectural brilliance, a must-see for history enthusiasts.
باغی شار
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Escape to nature in the heart of Erbil at Baghi Shar Park, a tranquil oasis for relaxation and recreation.
Essential places to dine
Koktel Restaurant
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Hawler Restaurant
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Bene Restaurant and Cafe - بێ نێ چێشتخانە و کافێ
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Samad Restaurant
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Shkar Fish Restaurant
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Experience exquisite Iraqi seafood at Shkar Fish Restaurant in Erbil - where flavor meets tradition.
BIG LAND Restaurant
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Iraqi Touch Restaurant
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جيشتخانةى جندول
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Dawa 2 Restaurant
2.4 km
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BigChefs Erbil
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Bamboo Asian Restaurant, Erbil
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Le Boulevard
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ADA GARDEN GULAN PARK
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Experience exquisite dining in Erbil at ADA Garden Gulan Park - where culinary delights meet serene landscapes.
Sewar Gourmet
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The Bistro Restaurant and Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Citadel Souvenirs
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متاجر فلكلور أربيل - Qalat Antique Souvenirs
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Erbil_Silver925
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Grand Bazaar
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كرزات پاشا
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Abdulla Perfume
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IZB
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mali hajyan :: ماڵی حاجییان
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Bryar
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Dubai Shop
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Kazm Kurdish Clothes
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Luqman bazaz
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Rolex Erbil Golden time
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SM Collection 1982
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Shang
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
مودرن شوبAsk
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Loft
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Andiamo Sport Lounge Bar & Shisha
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Erbil restaurant
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Oxygen Shisha Lounge
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Al Reef Cafe Erbil
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Oak Resto pub
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Divan Erbil
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Experience unparalleled luxury and comfort at Divan Erbil, the ideal destination for travelers in the heart of Iraq's vibrant Erbil city.
Sapphire Steak House Restaurant & Cafe erbil
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American Dream Restaurant & Bar
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Breeze restaurant and bar
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Breeze Restaurant and Bar in Erbil, where delectable cuisine meets refreshing drinks in an inviting setting.
Corleone
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The Two Princes English Pub
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Experience the warmth of British pub culture at The Two Princes English Pub in Erbil, where good food and great company await.
Cross Star BY TANGO
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BLOO Restaurant
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Discover the vibrant flavors of Erbil at BLOO Restaurant, where culinary delights and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
