Bakr Awa, Tigris Region Travel Guide

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Unearth millennia of Mesopotamian history at Bakr Awa, an ancient tell near Halabja, Iraq.

Bakr Awa is an ancient archaeological site near Halabja, Iraq, revealing millennia of settlement from the Early Bronze Age to Islamic times. Explore the remains of this once-thriving city and uncover its rich history.

A brief summary to Bakr Awa

6WCR+927, Halabja, Sulaymaniyah Governorate, IQ

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, as the site is an archaeological mound.
Bring water and sun protection, especially during the hot summer months.
Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the site's history and significance.

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Explore Bakr Awa on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Bakr Awa, mapped for you.

Getting There

Taxi

From central Halabja, a taxi is the most convenient way to reach Bakr Awa. Negotiate the fare beforehand, as meters are not commonly used. A typical one-way trip should cost around IQD 5,000 - 7,000. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
Driving

If driving from Halabja, take the main road towards the Iranian border. Bakr Awa is located off the main road, and is approximately a 15-20 minute drive. Parking is available near the site. Note that the road leading directly to the site may be unpaved in sections.

Discover more about Bakr Awa

Bakr Awa, an archaeological tell located near Halabja in the Sulaymaniyah Governorate, offers a glimpse into the long and varied history of Mesopotamia. This significant site, situated in the fertile Shahrizor Plain, reveals layers of civilization spanning from the Early Bronze Age (3rd millennium BC) to the Islamic period.The tell, rising 40 meters above the surrounding plain, comprises a central settlement mound and a lower city, indicating a once-thriving urban center. Archaeological investigations, including those by Ephraim Speiser in 1927 and later by Iraqi and German teams, have unearthed a wealth of artifacts and architectural remains. These finds shed light on the cultural, economic, and political connections of Bakr Awa throughout its history.Excavations have revealed traces of settlements from various periods, including the Early Dynastic and Jemdet Nasr periods, the Neo-Assyrian and Achaemenid Empires, and the Abbasid and Ottoman periods. Pottery, architecture, and other artifacts showcase influences from northern and southern Mesopotamia, as well as connections to regions like Urartu and Media. Today, Bakr Awa continues to draw archaeologists and visitors interested in exploring Iraq's rich cultural heritage.