Halamata Cave: Echoes of Assyrian Kings

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Discover ancient Assyrian artistry at Halamata Cave near Duhok, featuring remarkable rock reliefs and a glimpse into Mesopotamia's past.

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Halamata cave

Halamata Cave, near Duhok, Iraq, features Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs dating back to 704-681 BC. Carved into a cliffside, the Maltai reliefs depict a procession linked to King Sennacherib's canal system, offering a glimpse into ancient Mesopotamian artistry and religious practices.

A brief summary to Halamata cave

RWPR+W83, Duhok, Duhok Governorate, IQ

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Halamata cave.

Wear sturdy shoes for the hike to the cave and exploring the rocky terrain.
Bring water and snacks as there are limited facilities near the cave.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the reliefs.

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Getting There

Taxi

From Duhok city center, a taxi is the most convenient way to reach the trailhead for Halamata Cave. A taxi ride will cost approximately 7,000 IQD (December 2022) and takes around 30 minutes. The taxi will drop you off near an electricity pylon next to two blue-roofed huts, marking the start of the trail. From there, follow the path down the slope to reach the cave.
Walking

Once at the trailhead (coordinates 36.8372579, 42.940795), the final approach to Halamata Cave involves a descent down the mountainside. Follow the trail, initially walking straight down the slope with a slight veer to the right. The path can be difficult to discern among the rocks, so keep an eye out for faint red arrows. After a short distance, you'll spot a small ravine veering to the left; follow the path into the crevice and scramble down the rocky section. Continue until you encounter another cliff, with Halamata Cave below you. Choose the path descending along the edge of the mountainside and follow it for about two minutes until it branches off to the left, leading directly to the site. There are no additional costs for this final walking segment.

Discover more about Halamata cave

Halamata Cave, an archaeological site located seven kilometers southwest of Duhok in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, is home to the Maltai reliefs. These Neo-Assyrian bas-reliefs, carved into the cliff-side above the village of Geverke, date back to the reign of King Sennacherib (704-681 BCE). The reliefs are associated with the northern canal system built to carry water to his capital, Nineveh.The Maltai reliefs consist of four panels, each approximately six meters long and two meters high, depicting a procession of nine figures. The carvings illustrate the Assyrian king worshipping the main divinities in the Mesopotamian pantheon. Unlike other Assyrian royal art, these reliefs uniquely show the king gesturing in front of anthropomorphic deities. British explorer Gertrude Bell first photographed the reliefs in 1909.Over the years, the site has faced challenges, including vandalism. In 2016, the reliefs were defaced with graffiti, and in 2018, a portion of the carvings was stolen. Despite these incidents, conservation efforts continue to preserve this invaluable heritage. Today, Halamata Cave offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness ancient artistry and connect with the rich history of the Assyrian civilization. The site provides a picturesque view of Duhok city.