The huge entrance
About 25 m wide.
Osama Shukir Muhammed Amin FRCP(Glasg) — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Osama Shukir Muhammed Amin FRCP(Glasg) — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Khoshhat — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Osama Shukir Muhammed Amin FRCP(Glasg) — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Khoshhat — CC BY-SA 4.0
Shanidar Cave is an archaeological site on Bradost Mountain, in the Zagros range of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Neanderthal remains were discovered here in 1953, making it one of the best-known prehistoric sites in the world. It combines a huge rock entrance with beautiful mountain scenery, above all when the slopes turn green in spring. The archaeologist Ralph Solecki worked at the site, and a bust of him stands near the path. Among the best-known finds is the individual known as Shanidar 1, who survived severe injuries, possibly thanks to the care of his group. Shanidar 4 became famous as the flower burial because of pollen found around it, but this reading is debated and the pollen may have a natural cause. The cave lies at about 640 m, and its triangular entrance is about 25 m wide and 8 m high. Inside is a broad chamber about 40 m long and 53 m wide. You climb to it by a short stone stairway on a green slope, and a panel by the path explains the site's history. It is about 74 km in a straight line from Erbil, and you need a car. You can combine it with Gali Ali Beg Waterfall, about 30 km away. Wear comfortable shoes, as the slopes are slippery after rain. The UK Foreign Office currently advises against all but essential travel to this area, so check official guidance before planning.
About 25 m wide.
A broad rock space.
Finest in spring.
Bradost Mountain, near Barzan, Erbil Governorate, Iraq
The remains are not on show in the cave, so the visit focuses on the place and its explanations.
The stairway is short but can be slippery after rain, so wear suitable shoes.