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Halamata Cave: Echoes of Assyrian Kings

Discover 3,000-year-old Assyrian carvings at Halamata Cave near Duhok, a glimpse into the art and history of the Neo-Assyrian Empire.

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Halamata Cave, near Duhok, Iraq, is an archaeological treasure featuring Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs known as the Maltai reliefs. Carved into a cliffside, these 3,000-year-old carvings depict a procession led by King Sennacherib worshipping Mesopotamian deities, offering a unique glimpse into the art and religious beliefs of the Assyrian Empire.

A brief summary to Halamata cave

  • RWPR+W83, Duhok, Duhok Governorate, IQ
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes for the hike to the cave and exploring the site.
  • Bring water and snacks, as facilities are limited near the cave.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the cave's history and the Maltai reliefs.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Duhok city center, the most convenient way to reach Halamata Cave is by taxi. A taxi ride to the cave takes approximately 30 minutes and costs around 10,000 to 15,000 IQD. Ensure the driver knows the location, referencing the coordinates (36.8372579, 42.940795) if necessary. The taxi will drop you off at the trailhead on Zawa Mountain. From there, follow the marked path to the cave.

  • Walking

    From the trailhead on Zawa Mountain (reached by taxi), follow the path towards Halamata Cave. Look for five red arrows painted on a metal post on the right side of the road and a small rundown shed surrounded by bulk rubbish on the left. The path involves a scramble down a rocky ravine. After a few minutes, you should be able to see the site. The hike from the trailhead to the cave is short but requires sturdy shoes.

Unlock the Best of Halamata cave

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Discover more about Halamata cave

Nestled on the slopes of Zawa Mountain, seven kilometers southwest of Duhok, Halamata Cave offers a captivating journey into ancient Assyria. The site is renowned for the Maltai reliefs, four Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs etched into the cliff-side. These carvings, approximately six meters long and two meters high, date back to the reign of King Sennacherib (704-681 BCE). The reliefs depict a procession of nine figures, showcasing the Assyrian king paying homage to the main divinities of the Mesopotamian pantheon. This unique iconography distinguishes them from other examples of Assyrian royal art, where the king is typically shown worshipping symbols of gods rather than anthropomorphic deities. The carvings are associated with the northern canal system built by Sennacherib to carry water to his capital, Nineveh. First documented by British explorer Gertrude Bell in 1909, Halamata Cave has attracted historians, archaeologists, and tourists drawn to its artistic and historical significance. While some reliefs remain in good condition, others have suffered from vandalism and theft. Despite these challenges, ongoing conservation efforts strive to preserve this invaluable heritage for future generations. A visit to Halamata Cave offers a tangible connection to a bygone era, inviting visitors to unravel the mysteries of ancient Assyria.

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