Erbil Citadel Travel Guide

Erbil Citadel, locally called Qellat, stands as a remarkable testament to human history and resilience. This ancient city, perched atop a large, oval-shaped tell, has been inhabited for over 6,000 years, with its origins potentially stretching back to the Neolithic period. The Citadel has been controlled by Sumerian, Assyrian, Sassanid, Mongol, Christian, and Ottoman hands. Over the millennia, each civilization has left its mark, contributing to the Citadel's unique layered architecture and rich cultural heritage.As you explore the Citadel, you'll discover a captivating blend of historical houses, winding alleyways, and remnants of Ottoman-era architecture. The Mulla Afandi Mosque, rebuilt on the site of a 19th-century predecessor, stands as a testament to the Citadel's religious history. The Citadel also features a hammam that was built in 1775. The Kurdish Textile Museum showcases the region's vibrant textile traditions.In 2014, UNESCO recognized the Erbil Citadel as a World Heritage Site, acknowledging its outstanding universal value and its significance as a cultural landmark. Ongoing restoration efforts, in partnership with UNESCO, aim to preserve the Citadel's unique character and ensure its continued survival for generations to come.