The old lanes
Brick houses.
Sarchia Khursheed — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Osama Shukir Muhammed Amin FRCP(Glasg) — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Osama Shukir Muhammed Amin FRCP(Glasg) — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Osama Shukir Muhammed Amin FRCP(Glasg) — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Osama Shukir Muhammed Amin FRCP(Glasg) — CC BY-SA 4.0
Erbil Citadel is an ancient inhabited mound in the centre of the city of Erbil, its historic heart, listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2014. It rises above the surrounding bazaars, and its high walls are visible from far off. It is among the main sights of the Kurdistan Region and the easiest to visit. The earliest evidence of settlement dates to the 5th millennium BC, and possibly earlier. It first appears in historical sources in the Ebla tablets around 2000 BC, and gained special importance in the Neo-Assyrian period. Its importance fell after the Mongols took it in 1258. Its urban fabric changed greatly during the 20th century. The mound rises between 25 and 32 m and occupies an oval of about 430 by 340 m. Inside are lanes and old brick houses, the Mulla Afandi Mosque, the only surviving religious building, and the Kurdish Textile Museum in a restored mansion. Restoration is under way, so some parts may be closed. Below spreads the Qaysari bazaar and its cafes, overlooking a large square, so combine them in one walk. Evening is the finest time in the square. Carry some dinars for the small museum fees. The UK Foreign Office currently advises against all but essential travel to this area, so check official guidance before planning.
Brick houses.
A restored mansion.
Best in the evening.
Central Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
No, restoration work continues, and some parts may be closed.
Go down to the Qaysari bazaar and the large square, with their many cafes and shops.