Halamata the sculptures - Halamata Cave
Halamata Cave: Echoes of Assyrian Kings
Halamata Cave: Echoes of Assyrian Kings
Discover ancient Assyrian carvings at Halamata Cave near Duhok, a glimpse into King Sennacherib's empire and Mesopotamian religious art.
Halamata Cave, near Duhok, Iraq, is an archaeological site featuring Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs known as the Maltai reliefs. Carved into a cliffside, these 3,000-year-old carvings offer a glimpse into the empire of King Sennacherib.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Halamata cave
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
RWPR+W83, Duhok, Duhok Governorate, IQ
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Getting There
Taxi
From Duhok city center, a taxi is the most convenient way to reach Halamata Cave. A taxi ride to the cave will cost approximately 7,000 to 15,000 IQD. The ride takes about 30-40 minutes. Ensure the driver knows the location of Halamata Cave or the village of Geverke.
Walking
From the trailhead on Zawa Mountain, follow the path down the slope, initially heading straight with a slight inclination to the right. The trail may be difficult to discern among the rocks, so head towards a cliff and then follow the edge eastward until you find the path. After spotting a small ravine, follow the path into it and scramble down the rocky section. The cave will be below you; take the path descending along the mountainside for about two minutes until it branches left, leading to the site.
Local tips
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Wear sturdy shoes for the hike to the cave, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery.
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Bring water, especially during warmer months, as the hike can be strenuous.
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Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Discover more about Halamata cave
Halamata Cave, located seven kilometers southwest of Duhok in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, holds the Maltai reliefs, a set of four Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs. Carved into the cliffside above the village of Malthai, these carvings date back to the reign of King Sennacherib (704-681 BCE). The reliefs are associated with Sennacherib's northern canal system, built to carry water to his capital, Nineveh.The reliefs, each measuring approximately six meters long and two meters high, depict a procession of nine figures. The Assyrian king is shown worshipping the main divinities in the Mesopotamian pantheon. This depiction is unique, as other Assyrian royal art typically portrays the king worshipping symbols of gods rather than anthropomorphic deities.Over the centuries, the reliefs have faced challenges, including vandalism and theft. In 2016, they were defaced with a Kurdish flag, and in 2018, a piece of the relief was stolen. Despite these incidents, conservation efforts continue to preserve this invaluable heritage. Today, visitors can witness these ancient carvings and appreciate the artistry and history of the Neo-Assyrian period.
A brief summary to Halamata cave
Use Halamata cave as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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