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Kirkuk Citadel: A Timeless Iraqi Landmark

Explore the ancient Kirkuk Citadel, a historic landmark with millennia of stories etched into its walls, located in the heart of Kirkuk, Iraq.

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The Kirkuk Citadel, the oldest part of the city, rises dramatically from a 40-meter-high mound. Believed to have been founded as a military defense post between 884 and 858 B.C., it has been a melting pot of cultures and religions throughout its long history.

A brief summary to Kirkuk Citadel

  • F99V+FX9, Kirkuk, Nahiyat Hammam, Kirkuk Governorate, 36001, IQ

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the Citadel involves walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the Citadel.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Kirkuk, the Citadel is easily accessible on foot. Orient yourself towards the prominent mound rising above the city. As you approach the Citadel, you'll likely pass through the Qaysari Bazaar, a historic market. The Citadel is located across the Khasa River, which is often dry. There are no entrance fees to access the Citadel.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Kirkuk. A short taxi ride from most points in the city center to the Citadel should cost approximately 2,000 to 5,000 IQD. Be sure to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Unlock the Best of Kirkuk Citadel

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Discover more about Kirkuk Citadel

Rising 130 feet above the Khasa River, the Kirkuk Citadel is a historic symbol of Kirkuk, Iraq. Its origins are debated, with some believing the nomadic Gutian people constructed the oldest parts around 3,500 years ago, while others attribute it to the Assyrian king Ashurnasirpal II in the 9th century BCE. The Citadel has been a strategic and cultural focal point for millennia. Over the centuries, the Citadel has housed a Jewish temple, a Christian church, and a Muslim mosque, reflecting the diverse religious history of the region. The site is considered a unifying place where Muslims, Christians, and Jews can come together. The Citadel contains structures such as the Great Mosque, the Green Dome, the Prophet Daniel Mosque (believed to contain Daniel's tomb), the Al-Aryan Mosque, the Al-Qaysariyah Market, and a Chaldean Church. In the late 1990s, Saddam Hussein launched a campaign to 'beautify' the Citadel, resulting in the forced removal of Kurdish and Turkoman residents and the destruction of hundreds of homes. Although there have been international efforts, including UNESCO involvement since 2010, to restore the Citadel, parts of it are at risk of further deterioration due to neglect. Today, visitors can explore the ancient structures and experience the rich history and cultural significance of this unique landmark.

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