Erbil Citadel, Zagros Mountains Travel Guide

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Explore the ancient Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited settlements, in the heart of Erbil.

The Erbil Citadel, also known as Hawler Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historical heart of Erbil, dating back to possibly the 5th millennium BC. Rising dramatically from the surrounding plain, this ancient tell offers a unique glimpse into the region's long and complex past.

A brief summary to Erbil Citadel

Erbil, Municipality One, Erbil Governorate, 44001, IQ
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Monday 9 am-7 pm
Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
Thursday 9 am-7 pm
Friday 9 am-7 pm
Saturday 9 am-7 pm
Sunday 9 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during the cooler months (February to May or September to December) for a more comfortable experience.
Explore the Kurdish Textile Museum within the citadel to learn about the region's rich textile heritage.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the Citadel's uneven terrain.
Check the opening hours before your visit, as they may vary.

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Explore Erbil Citadel on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Erbil Citadel, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Erbil's city center, the Citadel is easily accessible on foot. As you approach the Citadel, you'll notice its imposing walls rising above the surrounding city. Walk towards the main gate, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling streets. There are no entrance fees to enter the Citadel.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Erbil. A short taxi ride from most central locations to the Citadel should cost approximately 4,000 to 6,000 IQD. Ask the driver to drop you off at the main entrance.
Driving

If driving, parking is available near the back entrance of the Citadel. The parking fee is 1,000 IQD. Be aware that traffic in the city center can be congested.

Discover more about Erbil Citadel

The Erbil Citadel, locally known as Qellat, stands as a remarkable testament to human history, believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site, rising between 82 and 105 feet (25 and 32 meters) above the surrounding plain, has been a silent witness to millennia of civilizations.Occupying an oval area of 430 by 340 meters, the Citadel's origins trace back to possibly the 5th millennium BC. Over its long history, it has been under the rule of Sumerians, Assyrians, Sassanians, Mongols, Christians, and Ottomans, serving as a home to mosques, churches, synagogues, schools, and homes. The Citadel corresponds to ancient Arbela, an important Assyrian political and religious center. Its name has evolved through time, appearing in various forms such as Irbilum, Urbilum, Urbel, Arbail, Arbira, Arbela, and Erbil.Today, the Erbil Citadel presents a multilayered architectural mound that has shaped the urban fabric of Erbil. Visitors can explore historical houses, remnants of Ottoman-era architecture, and the Kurdish Textile Museum, which showcases the region's rich textile heritage. The Mulla Afandi Mosque, rebuilt on the site of a 19th-century mosque, is among the surviving religious structures. Restoration efforts, overseen by the High Commission for Erbil Citadel Revitalization (HCECR) in partnership with UNESCO, aim to preserve this invaluable cultural landmark.The Citadel is more than just an archaeological site; it is a living testament to Erbil's enduring legacy. From its panoramic views to its maze of alleyways, the Citadel offers a unique and immersive experience for those seeking to connect with the past.