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Slemani Cigarette Factory: A Cultural Transformation

Explore the transformation of Slemani Cigarette Factory, from industrial landmark to cultural hub, showcasing art, history, and community spirit.

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The Slemani Cigarette Factory, once a pillar of Sulaymaniyah's economy, has been reborn as a vibrant arts and culture hub. Explore its history and witness its transformation into a space for creativity and community engagement.

A brief summary to Slemani Cigarette Factory - گارگەی جگەرەکەی سلێمانی

  • HC4P+825, Sulaymaniyah, Sulaymaniyah Governorate, IQ
  • Monday 8 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-7 pm
  • Friday 8 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the day to fully experience the art installations and exhibitions.
  • Engage with the local artists to learn more about the cultural significance of the factory.
  • Check the factory's event calendar for performances, workshops, and festivals.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Sulaymaniyah, head north on Salim Street until you reach the intersection with Kurdistan Street. Turn left onto Kurdistan Street and continue for about 1 kilometer. The Slemani Cigarette Factory will be on your right, located at HC4P+825. The walk is approximately 25-30 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Sulaymaniyah city center, take a local bus or minibus heading towards 'Hawler Road'. Ask the driver to let you off near the Slemani Cigarette Factory. The bus ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Walk back a short distance to find the factory at HC4P+825. Bus fare is approximately 1,000 IQD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Sulaymaniyah. A taxi from the city center to the Slemani Cigarette Factory will take about 10-15 minutes. Agree on the fare before starting your ride. The typical cost is between 4,000 to 5,000 IQD for a 5-kilometer ride. Ensure you are using a registered yellow taxi.

Unlock the Best of Slemani Cigarette Factory - گارگەی جگەرەکەی سلێمانی

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Discover more about Slemani Cigarette Factory - گارگەی جگەرەکەی سلێمانی

Once a significant industrial site, the Slemani Cigarette Factory in Sulaymaniyah now stands as a testament to the city's resilience and cultural vibrancy. Established in 1956 and fully operational by 1961, the factory provided employment for around 2,500 families for over four decades. It was a major economic driver, producing the first Kurdish cigarette brand and churning out hundreds of millions of cigarettes annually. However, with the influx of foreign products, the factory closed its doors in 2003. After years of abandonment, local artists and intellectuals united in 2019 to preserve the site, transforming it into a non-profit cultural center. Today, the Culture Factory hosts exhibitions, film making spaces, rock climbing, climate change initiatives, and more. Visitors can explore art studios, stroll through wide alleys, and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere. The factory blends industrial history with artistic expression, making it a unique destination. The Slemani Cigarette Factory is open daily from 8 AM to 7 PM, inviting tourists to explore its rich history and immerse themselves in the local culture. Knowledgeable staff are available to share stories and insights about the factory's operations and its role in the local economy.

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