Erbil Citadel

Erbil Citadel

Erbil Citadel is located in the old city of Erbil, Erbil Governorate, Iraq. Its history dates back to the 5th millennium BCE, possibly even earlier. It was first mentioned in historical records during the Third Dynasty of Ur and played a significant role during the Neo-Assyrian period. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

The citadel is oval in shape, with a height ranging between 25 to 32 meters and covering an area of 102,000 square meters. In the early 20th century, it housed three mosques, two schools, and one bathhouse. Prior to 1957, it also had a synagogue. The only surviving structure today is the Mulla Afandi Mosque. This citadel is the finest ancient monument and historical site in northern Iraq, with its height gradually increasing until it eventually rose above the level of the surrounding plain.

The currently inhabited area of the citadel was constructed by the Babylonians and Assyrians and once served as the political and religious center of the Assyrians. It has witnessed the rule of Persian, Greek, Sassanian dynasties, and finally came under the Islamic Empire.

Erbil Citadel

Must-visit reason: Added to the World Heritage List in 2014

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia【Asia】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Iraq[Iraq]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Erbil Province [Arbil Province]

City where the attraction is located: Erbil [Arbil]