Erbil Citadel Travel Guide

Rising 25 to 32 meters (82 to 105 ft) above the surrounding plain, the Erbil Citadel, also known locally as Qellat, dominates the Erbil skyline. This ancient site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014, is believed to have been inhabited as early as the Neolithic period, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements on Earth. The Citadel has been under the control of Sumerian, Assyrian, Sassanid, Mongol, Christian, and Ottoman hands.Walking through the citadel is like stepping back in time. The maze of alleyways leads past traditional mud-brick houses, the Mulla Afandi Mosque (rebuilt on the site of a 19th-century mosque), and the Qassim Agha Abdullah hammam dating back to 1775. The Kurdish Textile Museum showcases the region's rich textile heritage.The Citadel offers panoramic views of Erbil. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon to catch the sunset over the city. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven. The southern section of the Citadel has been largely rebuilt, while other parts of the wall are partially collapsed. Restoration efforts are ongoing to preserve this cultural treasure for future generations.