Erbil Citadel: A Living History in Stone

Rising between 82 and 105 feet (25 and 32 meters) above the surrounding plain, the Erbil Citadel, also known locally as Qelat, has been at Erbil's historical heart for millennia. This ancient tell, or settlement mound, covers a roughly oval area of 430 by 340 meters. Its continuous occupation potentially dates back to the 5th millennium BC, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world.Over the centuries, the Citadel has been controlled by numerous empires, including the Sumerians, Assyrians, Sassanians, Mongols, and Ottomans. Each era has left its mark, contributing to the Citadel's unique architectural tapestry. Historical records first mention Erbil around 2300 BC. The city gained prominence during the Neo-Assyrian period and later became an important Christian center. The arrival of the Mongols in 1258 marked the beginning of a decline in Erbil's regional importance.Today, the Erbil Citadel is undergoing extensive restoration efforts to preserve its cultural significance. Traditional brick courtyard houses, a 13th-century mosque, and a hammam (bathhouse) dating back to 1775 are among the historical sites found within its walls. The Kurdish Textile Museum, housed in a renovated mansion, showcases the region's rich textile heritage. Wandering through the Citadel's maze of alleyways offers visitors a captivating journey through time, with panoramic city views from its highest point.