Sherwana Castle: A Kurdish Fortress

Sherwana Castle, or Qەڵای شێروانە in Kurdish, stands proudly at the entrance of Kalar, near the Sirwan River, as a testament to Kurdish history and architectural prowess. Constructed in 1866 by Mohammed Pasha Jaff, a prominent Kurdish leader under the Ottoman Empire, the castle served as both an administrative hub for the Jaff tribe and a residence for the Pasha. The castle's design reflects the era's strategic and aesthetic considerations. It features a basement, two floors, and an open octagonal hall. A museum within the castle displays artifacts excavated from the surrounding mound, offering insights into the region's past, with items from the Kassite, Sasanian, Umayyad, and Abbasid periods. Climbing the stairs to the castle rewards visitors with panoramic views of Kalar and the surrounding landscape. At night, the castle is illuminated, creating a captivating spectacle.Over the years, Sherwana Castle has become a symbol of Kalar, often referred to as "the Heart of Garmiyan" by locals. Despite facing damage from military activities in the 1990s and natural disasters like heavy rains and earthquakes, restoration efforts have helped preserve its historical integrity. Today, Sherwana Castle is a major tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors annually to experience its rich history and cultural significance.