Kirkuk Citadel, Euphrates Region Travel Guide

The Kirkuk Citadel, rising 130 feet above the surrounding plains, is considered the oldest part of Kirkuk. Its history is rich and contested, with some believing the nomadic Gutian people constructed the oldest parts around 3,500 years ago, while others credit the Assyrian king Ashurnasirpal II between 850 and 884 BCE. King Seleucus I Nicator further fortified it with a strong rampart featuring 72 towers.Throughout the centuries, the Citadel has been a significant religious and cultural site. It housed a Jewish temple, later a Christian church, and finally a Muslim mosque, symbolizing unity among diverse faiths. The 'Red Church,' with its pre-Islamic mosaics, is a notable jewel within the Citadel. The Great Mosque, dating back to the 13th century, showcases unique Islamic architectural styles.While the Citadel has faced periods of neglect and damage, including a controversial 'beautification' campaign in the late 1990s that led to the destruction of numerous homes, it remains a powerful symbol of Kirkuk's heritage. Today, efforts are underway to restore and preserve this historical treasure, which was added to UNESCO's tentative list of World Heritage Sites in April 2021. Visitors can explore its ancient structures, including the Tomb of Prophet Daniel, and experience the echoes of civilizations past.