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Erbil Civilization Museum: A Journey Through Mesopotamian History

Explore Erbil's ancient past at the Civilization Museum: artifacts from Stone Age to Islamic period near the Citadel.

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The Erbil Civilization Museum, located in Erbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, showcases the region's rich history from prehistoric times to the late Abbasid period. Visitors can explore artifacts from early human settlements, ancient empires, and Islamic civilizations.

A brief summary to Erbil Civilization Museum

  • 52G7+W97, Kirkuk Road, Erbil, Municipality One, Erbil Governorate, IQ
  • +9647704971004

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and have a more relaxed experience.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Erbil Citadel for a comprehensive historical experience.
  • Check the museum's opening hours before your visit, as they may vary.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    Taxis are a readily available and convenient way to reach the Erbil Civilization Museum from anywhere in the city. From Erbil International Airport (EBL), a taxi ride to the museum takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Negotiate the fare in advance or ensure the driver uses the meter. Expect to pay around 4,000-6,000 IQD for a cross-town trip. From the airport, the fare could be around US$25.

  • Walking

    If you are already near the Erbil Citadel or in the city center, walking to the Erbil Civilization Museum is a viable option. The museum is located near the Citadel, making it easily accessible on foot. Be aware of the weather conditions, especially during the hotter months.

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Discover more about Erbil Civilization Museum

The Erbil Civilization Museum offers a captivating journey through the history of Erbil and the surrounding region, one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in the world. Founded in the mid-1960s, the museum's collection has grown to become the second-largest in Iraqi Kurdistan. The museum's exhibits span from the Stone Age to the Islamic era, providing insights into the diverse cultures that have shaped the region. Key highlights include artifacts from the Paleolithic, Neolithic, and Chalcolithic periods, offering a glimpse into the lives of early hunter-gatherers and the first agricultural communities of Mesopotamia. A plaster cast of a Neanderthal skull dating back 60,000-45,000 years is among the notable displays. Visitors can explore ancient pottery, tools, jewelry, coins, cuneiform tablets, and inscriptions that highlight pivotal eras in Mesopotamian history. The museum also features artifacts from the Assyrian Empire, including sculptures, bas-reliefs, and inscriptions that once adorned ancient palaces and temples. The Gallery of Traditional Kurdish Life presents an intimate portrayal of Kurdish customs and traditions, with clothing, jewelry, musical instruments, and reconstructed village scenes. The Islamic Era Exhibition showcases Islamic art and culture through manuscripts, ceramics, textiles, and metalwork. Strategically located near the Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Erbil Civilization Museum plays a vital role in preserving and showcasing the cultural heritage of the Kurdistan region.

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