Halamata Cave: Ancient Assyrian Reliefs
Explore 3000-year-old Assyrian carvings at Halamata Cave near Duhok, offering a glimpse into ancient Mesopotamian art and history.
Halamata Cave, located seven kilometers southwest of Duhok in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, is home to the Maltai reliefs, a series of Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs. Carved into the cliff-side, these reliefs date back to the reign of King Sennacherib (704-681 BCE). The carvings are associated with the northern canal system built to carry water to his capital city of Nineveh. The reliefs depict a procession of nine figures, including the Assyrian king worshipping the main divinities of the Mesopotamian pantheon. This unique iconography, where the king is shown gesturing in front of anthropomorphic deities, distinguishes them from other examples of Assyrian royal art. The site was first documented by British explorer Gertrude Bell in 1909. Visiting Halamata Cave offers a unique opportunity to witness the artistic and cultural achievements of ancient Assyria. The rugged beauty of the surrounding landscape adds to the experience. While exploring the cave, visitors can appreciate the intricate carvings and the stories they tell.
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain can be uneven and require some trekking.
- Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months.
- Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the cave's history and significance.
- Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can affect accessibility.
A brief summary to Halamata cave
- RWPR+W83, Duhok, Duhok Governorate, IQ
Getting There
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Taxi
From Duhok city center, hire a taxi to Halamata Cave. Negotiate the fare beforehand, with an approximate cost of 10,000 to 15,000 IQD. The taxi ride takes about 30 minutes. The driver will likely know the location, but having the coordinates (36.8372579, 42.940795) handy is recommended.
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Public Transport
Take a bus or shared taxi from Duhok to Zakho, approximately 30 kilometers away. The bus ride costs around 1,000 IQD. From Zakho, find local transport (another bus or shared taxi) heading towards Halamata. Inform the driver of your destination; the fare may vary, usually costing around 2,000 to 3,000 IQD.
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Walking
From the trailhead on Zawa Mountain, follow the path into a small ravine veering off to the left. Scramble down the rocky section. After this, you will encounter another cliff in front of you. Halamata Cave will now be right below you. On your right, you will register two paths, one running along the edge down the mountainside and the other one eastward. Choose the one descending and follow it for about two minutes. It will then branch off to the left. From there you should already be able to see the site.
