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Erbil Civilization Museum: A Journey Through Time

Explore millennia of Mesopotamian history at the Erbil Civilization Museum, showcasing artifacts from the Stone Age to the Islamic era.

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The Erbil Civilization Museum, located in Erbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, is an archaeological museum that houses artifacts dating back to the prehistoric period through the late Abbasid period. It offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history, showcasing items from early human societies in northern Mesopotamia.

A brief summary to Erbil Civilization Museum

  • 52G7+W97, Kirkuk Road, Erbil, Municipality One, Erbil Governorate, IQ
  • +9647704971004

Local tips

  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the artifacts.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a comprehensive historical experience.
  • Check for temporary exhibits or guided tours to enhance your understanding of the museum's collection.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Erbil Citadel, the Erbil Civilization Museum is a 15-minute walk. Head east from the Citadel towards Kirkuk Road. The museum will be on your right, close to Qalinj Agha. There are no tolls or parking fees associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From central Erbil, several buses run along Kirkuk Road. Look for buses heading towards the north of the city. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Erbil Civilization Museum. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the museum. A single bus fare costs approximately IQD 500.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Erbil. A taxi ride from the city center to the Erbil Civilization Museum typically costs between IQD 5,000 and IQD 7,000, depending on traffic and your starting location. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Erbil Civilization Museum

The Erbil Civilization Museum is a key cultural institution in Erbil, showcasing the region's long and diverse history. As the second largest museum in Iraqi Kurdistan, it houses a significant collection of artifacts that span from the prehistoric era to the Abbasid period. The museum's origins trace back to the mid-1960s when it was established in a small building in the Minara district. In the mid-1970s, the museum was moved to the Erbil Citadel. In 1989, the museum was relocated to its current building near the ancient tell of Qalinj Agha. The museum's collection grew significantly after artifacts were transferred from the Iraqi Museum in Baghdad. The museum is divided into three halls. The first hall features artifacts from the prehistoric periods to the beginning of the 2nd Millennium BC, including items from the Paleolithic age, Jarmo, Halaf, Samara, Ubaid, Uruk, Eridu, Early Dynastic, Akkadian, and Neo-Sumerian periods. A highlight is the plaster cast of a Neanderthal skull, with the original dating back 60,000-45,000 years. The second hall displays items from the Urartian, Hurrian, Assyrian, Seleucid, and Hatra periods. The third hall is dedicated to Islamic-era artifacts, including items from the Abbasid period. A visit to the Erbil Civilization Museum provides a unique and educational experience, offering insights into the civilizations that have shaped the region.

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