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Slemani Museum: A Window to Kurdistan's Rich Past

Explore millennia of history at the Slemani Museum, Iraqi Kurdistan's premier archaeological treasure trove.

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The Slemani Museum in Sulaymaniyah, Iraqi Kurdistan, is the second-largest museum in Iraq, showcasing artifacts from prehistoric times to the Ottoman period. It features collections from Paleolithic cave sites to Sasanian monuments, offering a comprehensive view of the region's history.

A brief summary to Slemani Museum

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's extensive collection.
  • Visit during the morning hours to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
  • The museum is closed for renovation work.
  • Check out the Slemani Museum Kids hall, which offers interactive exhibits for children.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Slemani Museum is located on Salim Street in central Sulaymaniyah. From most central hotels or landmarks like Azadi Park, it's easily accessible by foot. Walking allows you to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere and discover nearby shops and cafes. The museum is located near the heart of Salim Street.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are the most common and convenient way to reach the Slemani Museum from anywhere in Sulaymaniyah. They can be hailed on the street or arranged through your hotel. A short taxi ride within the city typically costs between 4,000 to 5,000 IQD. Ensure the taxi is a registered yellow taxi with a 'TAXI' sign. It's advisable to agree on the fare before starting the ride.

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Discover more about Slemani Museum

The Slemani Museum, also known as the Slemani or Slemani Museum, is an archaeological museum located in Sulaymaniyah in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. As the second largest museum in Iraq after the National Museum in Baghdad, it serves as a repository of the region's rich cultural heritage. The museum's collection spans a wide range of periods, from prehistoric times to the late Islamic and Ottoman periods. Visitors can explore artifacts from Paleolithic cave sites, early agricultural settlements, and ancient mounds, providing insights into the evolution of human civilization in the region. Key highlights include the Paikuli Gallery, displaying inscribed stone blocks and Sasanian coins from the Sasanian king Narseh's commemorative monument. The Narseh Gallery features large busts of the Sasanian king, offering a glimpse into the art and culture of the Sasanian Empire. The Prehistory Gallery showcases artifacts from Iraqi Kurdistan's Paleolithic caves and ancient sites, emphasizing themes of climate change, sustainability, and community development. The museum also has a section dedicated to children called "Slemani Museum Kids". This hall provides teaching and demonstrative tools for children. The museum itself has a storied past. Officially opened on July 14, 1961, it initially occupied a small building in the Shorsh District. In 1980, it moved to a larger building in the heart of Salim Street. The museum faced closures due to the Iran-Iraq War and the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait but was reopened in 2000. UNESCO has been involved in the museum's development and renovation since 2011.

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