The Best Attractions In Erbil- historical Trip

Erbil is the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, situated at an elevation of 418 meters above sea level. It is one of the oldest cities in Kurdistan and the world, located approximately 350 kilometers north of Baghdad and 90 kilometers north of Kirkuk. Its history dates back to around 600 BCE, with its name mentioned in Sumerian writings from 3000 BCE as “Urbilum” or “Urbilum” and in Babylonian writings as “Arba’ilu.”

This city stands as one of the earliest cradles of human civilization, with the famous Shanidar Cave in the region considered the birthplace of humanity. Human habitation in this cave spans over 60,000 years, marking it as the cradle of Neanderthal civilization. The village of Chami, dating back 12,000 years before the Common Era, exhibits signs of a significant transition in human civilization, marking the end of the cave-dwelling era and the beginning of the agricultural and pastoral era.

Erbil boasts more than 200 tourist hotels and motels, along with 150 restaurants. The city is adorned with numerous ancient mosques and historical landmarks. It features several parks, including three tourist parks, multiple amusement parks, and dozens of advanced and international markets. The city hosts over ten universities and numerous colleges, cultural houses, public libraries, and various tourist attractions within and outside the city. Stay with Gulf City Pedia to explore all the attractions of Erbil.

Erbil Citadel

Erbil Citadel, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in Iraq, is situated on a hill in the center of the present-day city of Erbil, in the Kurdistan region. The walls of the citadel, dating back to the 19th century, still stand as an impregnable barrier surrounding the area. The structures on the hill cover an approximate area of 102,000 square meters.

According to archaeological findings, the history of settlement on this hill dates back to the 5th millennium BCE. The earliest mention of this region is found in cuneiform inscriptions from Ebla, dating back to 2300 BCE. During the Neo-Assyrian Empire, this area gained special importance. In the Sassanian and Abbasid periods, Erbil was recognized as a center of Christianity. In 1258, the citadel was captured by the Mongols, leading to a decline in Erbil’s significance. In 2007, efforts were made to evacuate and restore the citadel, and archaeological research in the area has been ongoing since then.

Erbil Citadel is centrally located in the city, allowing easy access. Admission to the citadel is free. Notable attractions within the citadel include the Kurdish Textile Museum, Erbil Cultural Center, traditional bathhouse, Stone and Jewelry Museum, Mulla Effendi Mosque, Turkmen Heritage Museum, Kurdish Music Archive, and the Handwoven Carpet Exhibition.

The Bykhal Waterfalls

The Bykhal Waterfalls are situated in a mountainous region in the northern part of Iraq, 135 kilometers from Erbil and 10 kilometers from Rawanduz. With their natural attractions and scenic views, these waterfalls annually attract numerous tourists and are recognized as one of the most delightful attractions in Kurdistan, Iraq.

The best time to visit the Bykhal Waterfalls is during the summer when the cool breeze emanating from the falls refreshes the spirit. Due to its mountainous location, the weather can be harsh and uncomfortable during the colder seasons. Numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops have been established around the waterfalls. If you intend to get a close view of the waterfalls, visiting the restaurants is recommended.

Admission to the Bykhal Waterfalls is free; however, there is a fee for parking. Additionally, it’s important to note that the cost of food in the restaurants in this area can be relatively high.

Aqua Tarin Water Park

Aqua Tarin Water Park is one of the exciting summer destinations in Erbil, known as the largest open-air water park in Iraq. Aqua Tarin is located on the Masif Salahaddin Road, a short distance from the city. Despite its easy accessibility, the park offers a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

For adventure seekers, challenge yourself with the Black Hole, or if you prefer more relaxing recreational activities, explore the water slides or the gentle river. There is also a designated area for children under 10, where they can enjoy water slides and swim in the shallow pool.

In addition to its 20 rides, Aqua Tarin Water Park provides other facilities such as restaurants and parking. The presence of lifeguards in various corners of the park ensures the peace of mind of visitors from every angle.

The visiting hours for Aqua Tarin Water Park are from 9:00 to 19:00. The park tickets have different prices for adults and children. (As of 2022) Adult tickets cost 25,000 Iraqi Dinars, and children’s tickets are priced at 15,000 Iraqi Dinars.

Erbil’s Qaysari Bazaar

Erbil’s Qaysari Bazaar, also known as Erbil Bazaar or Qaysariye Bazaar, is among the covered historical markets. This bazaar is situated in the Citadel of Erbil, itself recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in Iraq, with a history dating back to the 13th century AD.

The narrow and winding alleys are distinctive features of Qaysariye Bazaar. Typically, each lane is dedicated to a specific type of product sold by local wholesalers. Some delectable treats you can find in Erbil Bazaar include fresh dairy products and honey, Kurdish tea, various nuts, local pastries, and more. Clothing, gold and jewelry, perfumes, and other items are also among the products offered in Qaysari Bazaar.

Numerous restaurants and food stalls have been established in the bazaar where you can savor local cuisine. Qaysari Bazaar operates from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM from Monday to Thursday, from 2:00 PM to midnight on Fridays, and from 8:00 AM to midnight on Saturdays.

Sami Abdulrahman Park

Sami Abdulrahman Park is the largest park in the Kurdistan region of Iraq and is situated in the western part of Erbil. The park is bordered by a 6-meter street on the east, with the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Parliament and Council of Ministers building located across from it. Covering an area of approximately 200 hectares, the park features tourist attractions such as restaurants, playgrounds, and a cinema.

The current location of Sami Abdulrahman Park was previously occupied by the headquarters of Saddam’s five-army division. Construction of the park began in 1998 and was completed the same year. The park is named in honor of Sami Abdulrahman, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government, who was killed in a suicide bombing in 2004.

In addition to green spaces and play areas, Sami Abdulrahman Park includes two small lakes. The Rose Garden is a pleasant spot for leisure, and the park’s restaurant offers delicious regional cuisine. For book enthusiasts, a public library named Zaytun is available within the park. There is also a bazaar for those who enjoy shopping.

Majidi Mall in Erbil

Majidi Mall in Erbil, also known as Majidi Mall, is considered one of the prominent shopping destinations in Kurdistan, Iraq. Established in 2009, this complex is among the largest shopping centers in the region, offering a diverse range of goods, from clothing to accessories, jewelry, cosmetics, and various perfumes.

Majidi Mall in Erbil, with its three-story structure, accommodates 67 shops and provides a parking space with a capacity for two thousand vehicles. Some of the well-known brands present in Majidi Mall include LC Waikiki, Adidas, Collins, and Defacto.

In addition to shopping for fashion products, you can visit the supermarket within Majidi Mall to fulfill your grocery and daily needs. If you get tired of shopping and exploring, you can indulge in delicious food and beverages at food stalls like KFC. On the ground floor, there is also a play area for children.

Majidi Mall operates from 10:00 AM to midnight.

Geli Ali Beg Waterfall

Geli Ali Beg Waterfall is located approximately 130 kilometers north of Erbil in the Kurdistan region of Iraq, nestled in a 12-kilometer-long valley. Travelers visiting this waterfall seem to detach from the rest of the world, surrounded by the rocky walls of the valley and a portion of the sky. Coupled with the magnificent natural scenery of the region, a visit to Geli Ali Beg Waterfall becomes an unforgettable memory.

With a height of over 10 meters, the waterfall cascades down into a corner of the valley with a powerful and swift water flow. At the base of the waterfall, a small lake has formed, adding to the charm of the waterfall. The water stream in the valley extends northeast and exits the valley after merging with another stream.

Geli Ali Beg Waterfall is situated at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level. The water temperature reaches 35 degrees Celsius in summers and drops to minus 10 degrees Celsius in winters. During the summer, visitors can enjoy boating in the lake beneath the waterfall. Popular activities in the area include picnicking, nature walks, and photography.

Access to Geli Ali Beg Waterfall is possible via the Hamilton International Road, along which the waterfall is located between the cities of Khalifan and Soran. Admission to Geli Ali Beg Waterfall is free.

Mount Halgurd

Mount Halgurd stands at an elevation of 3,607 meters, making it the highest peak in Iraq after Sheikh Dar. However, Sheikh Dar is situated on the Iran-Iraq border, so Halgurd boasts the highest elevation among mountains entirely within the borders of Iraq. This mountain is located in the Shwêman region, north of Erbil.

To reach the summit of Mount Halgurd, you first need to travel to Soran. Minibuses and buses operate on the route from Erbil to Soran, covering a distance of 107 kilometers. From Soran, you need to head towards Shwêman and then proceed to Mount Halgurd. Off-road vehicles are recommended for this part of the journey. After covering a certain distance, continuing the journey by car becomes impractical, and you’ll need to hike the remaining way to reach the summit.

The best time to visit Mount Halgurd is during the spring and summer, although many mountaineers avoid winter ascents. At an altitude of three thousand meters, there is a beautiful lake where you can take a rest.

Visiting Mount Halgurd is free, and there is no need for a permit.

Jalil Khayat Mosque

Jalil Khayat Mosque is the largest mosque in the city of Erbil, located in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. The architecture of the mosque is reminiscent of the Muhammad Ali Mosque in Cairo and the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul. The construction of the mosque was initiated by Jalil Khayat, one of the wealthy individuals in Erbil, but he passed away in 2005. Following his death, his sons continued the construction, and Jalil Khayat Mosque was finally inaugurated in 2007.

With a total area of 15,000 square meters, Jalil Khayat Mosque is situated in the city center of Erbil. The main prayer hall, covering 1,200 square meters with a height of 45 meters, can accommodate 1,500 to 2,000 worshippers. This prayer hall is utilized on Fridays, holidays, and religious occasions, while a smaller prayer room adjacent to it is designated for daily congregational prayers.

Both the interior and exterior spaces of the mosque are adorned with architectural embellishments, including colorful Islamic designs, inscriptions of Quranic verses, and grand chandeliers. The walls are constructed using bricks, and several domes are placed on the structure. The largest dome is positioned higher than the others, and two minarets, each 65 meters tall, flank the mosque on both sides. The minarets of Jalil Khayat Mosque offer panoramic views of the city from any vantage point.

Visiting Jalil Khayat Mosque is only possible during congregational prayers. The mosque closes 15 minutes after each prayer session. If you intend to visit without participating in prayers, coordinate with the guards. The mosque holds religious significance, so observe the considerations relevant to such places during your visit.

Family Mall

Family Mall, also known as Family Mall Shopping Center, is one of the shopping destinations and tourist attractions in Erbil, Iraq, with an area of 120,000 square meters. This shopping center accommodates 130 shops offering a variety of goods, including bookstores, fashion boutiques, cosmetics stores, and more. Some of the prominent brands present in Family Mall include Mango, Timberland, Cotton, LC Waikiki, and others.

The Family Mall supermarket is a convenient place for grocery shopping. Additionally, you can spend enjoyable moments in the Family Mall cinema. If you feel tired from exploring and shopping, you can relax in the cafes within the complex.

Other sections of Family Mall include parking facilities, a children’s play area, and a PlayStation section. You can also indulge in delicious meals at the restaurants within the complex. Family Mall operates from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM on weekdays and from 11:00 AM to midnight on weekends.

Erbil Citadel

Erbil Citadel, located in the center of Kirkuk, Iraq, is referred to as the oldest part of the city. Various opinions exist regarding the history of the citadel. Some experts believe that the Gutians founded the citadel, and it was initially known as the “Citadel of the City of Bani Shilua” until the second millennium BCE. Others argue that the citadel was constructed during the Assyrian period between 850 and 884 BCE.

Seleucus I added 72 towers around Erbil Citadel, 72 streets in the inner area, and two gates. An addition from the Islamic period is the Red Church, dating back to the seventh century. It is said that Timur visited Erbil Citadel during his military campaign in 1393 CE. The new walls of the citadel are also remnants from the Ottoman era.

Erbil Citadel, like other enclosed cities, consists of several main sections, including the Place of the Square in the northern part, the Citadel area in the center, and the Bath area in the south. Additionally, several gates are located at different fronts of the citadel. Notable attractions in Erbil Citadel include Qaisariyah Bazaar, Al-Arian Mosque, Daniel the Prophet Mosque, Chaldean Church, the Green Dome, and heritage houses.

Muzaffariya Minaret

Muzaffariya Minaret, known as Choli Minaret in Kurdish, is situated in Muzaffar Park in the western part of Erbil. The minaret stands at a height of 36 meters and was constructed between 1190 and 1232 during the rule of Salah ad-Din Ayyubi by Muzaffar al-Din Kokburi. Muzaffar al-Din Kokburi, a prince of the Oghuz Turks, surrendered to Salah ad-Din Ayyubi without war and married his sister.

Choli Minaret’s lower part is octagonal, and it transitions into a cylindrical shape. An arched structure is formed at the junction of these two sections. The lower octagonal section features two rows of muqarnas, repeated on each of the eight sides, and each muqarna is enclosed by a rectangular frame.

The entrance staircase to the minaret is located on the eastern side and provides access to its vestibule. A small door in the vestibule catches the eye, serving as the entrance to the second staircase. This staircase originally led to the second vestibule, which is now lost. The construction of Muzaffariya Minaret utilized fired bricks, and the cylindrical section is adorned with decorative brickwork.

The Kurdish Textile Museum

The Kurdish Textile Museum is one of the tourist destinations and attractions in Erbil, Iraq, dedicated to the textiles produced in the Kurdistan region. Textiles are considered one of the cultural aspects of the Kurdish heritage. This museum, located in a reconstructed building, started its operation in 2004 and is situated in the southeast part of the Erbil Citadel.

The museum’s collection includes textiles from various regions, including nomadic tribes, arranged in an organized manner and displayed for visitors. Each piece is accompanied by descriptions in Kurdish, Arabic, and English. Additionally, the museum showcases garments, agricultural tools, and aspects of daily life of the people in the region. One of the museum’s programs involves teaching weaving skills, where older women from ancient tribes pass on skills to eager learners, preserving techniques that have become scarce or lost throughout history.

Erbil Citadel is centrally located in the city, making it easily accessible. Other museum facilities include a gift shop and a cafe. The museum is open every day except Fridays, starting from 9:00 AM and closing at 6:00 PM. The admission fee for the Textile Museum is one thousand Iraqi dinars.