Erbil Citadel Travel Guide

Free Guide: Explore the ancient Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 7,000 years of history, in the heart of Iraqi Kurdistan.

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Erbil Citadel

A brief summary of Erbil Citadel

Explore the ancient Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 7,000 years of history, in the heart of Iraqi Kurdistan.

The Erbil Citadel, also known as Hawler Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historic tell in the heart of Erbil, Iraqi Kurdistan. Rising 82 to 105 feet (25 to 32 meters) above the surrounding plain, it's believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, with evidence of occupation dating back to the 5th millennium BC.

4.4 Very good · 14,870 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Every day9 am–7 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
Erbil, Erbil Governorate, 44001
Website

Getting there

Walking

The Erbil Citadel is located in the heart of Erbil and is easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the city center, follow the main roads towards the Citadel, which is visible from a distance due to its towering walls. The walk is approximately 1 km and takes around 15 minutes.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Erbil. You can hail a taxi on the street or ask your hotel to arrange one. A short taxi ride from most locations in Erbil to the Citadel should cost approximately 4,000-6,000 IQD. Be sure to confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

Public Transport

While public transportation in Erbil is not extensive, minibuses and shared taxis operate in the city. Locals can guide you to the nearest stop for a ride to the Citadel. The fare for a local minibus or shared taxi should be around 1,000 IQD.

Car

If driving, follow signs towards Erbil Citadel. Parking is available near the back entrance. The parking fee is approximately 1,000 IQD.

Discover more about Erbil Citadel

Overview

Erbil Citadel stands as a testament to the enduring history of Mesopotamia and the resilience of its people. This ancient mound, shaped by layers of civilizations building upon each other for millennia, dominates the Erbil skyline and offers a captivating journey through time.Inhabited since possibly the Neolithic period, the Citadel has been a melting pot of cultures and empires. Sumerians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Mongols, Christians, and Ottomans have all left their mark on this strategic location. The Citadel has served as a religious center, a bustling trading hub, a frontier town, and a rebel stronghold.Walking through the Citadel today is an immersive experience. While restoration efforts continue, you can still explore the maze-like alleyways, admire the 19th-century facades that create the impression of an impregnable fortress, and visit the Mulla Afandi Mosque, rebuilt on the site of an earlier 19th-century mosque. The Kurdish Textile Museum showcases the region's rich weaving heritage. Don't miss the chance to soak in panoramic views of Erbil from the Citadel's edge.

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