Located in the middle of the arid desert of Iraq, the ancient city of Erbil stands like an oasis containing thousands of years of human history. Visitors here feel like they are stepping back in time, returning to the distant past, following the footsteps of ancient civilizations, walking through the streets where many generations have lived, loved and built their communities.
The Erbil Citadel, located in the center of Erbil in Iraqi Kurdistan, is a testament to a long history of human settlement. Much of Erbil's history remains unknown, but there are many sites that suggest the ancient city existed as early as 5000 BC.
The ancient city of Erbil sits atop a 25- to 32-meter-high mound. Over the millennia, each generation here has built new structures on top of those of the previous generation. Its rich history has seen the rise and fall of empires, generations, and the development of many different civilizations, including the Assyrians, Persians, Greeks, Parthians, Romans, and Muslims.
The ancient city of Erbil is not just an archaeological site recorded in history books but is still a clear testament to the tenacious and intense vitality of human beings. The images of buildings, narrow alleys and winding roads everywhere create an ancient scene, bearing the mark of time.
At the heart of the ancient city is the Great Ziggurat, a sacred structure once dedicated to a Mesopotamian god, although its exact origins remain a mystery. The ziggurat, built of mud bricks, rises majestically above the surrounding landscape, a testament to the architectural prowess of its ancient builders.
Adjacent to the Ziggurat is the ancient city’s temple complex, which dates back to the 23rd century BC and contains remains of ancient religious activities. The complex’s layout and artifacts provide a glimpse into the spiritual beliefs and rituals of the generations who lived at the site.
Despite centuries of turmoil and change, it continues to be home to a vibrant community of residents. Today, the population is around 1.3 million, mostly Kurds.
Walking through the narrow streets will allow visitors to discover traditional houses, markets and cultural landmarks, all of which contribute to the richness of daily life within the walls of this ancient citadel.
Recognizing the cultural significance and historical value of the citadel, many efforts have been made to preserve and protect this unique site. The Erbil Citadel was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2014, receiving international recognition for its importance in understanding human history and cultural evolution.
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