Erbil

Citadel of Erbil

The Citadel of Erbil, situated in the heart of Erbil, Kurdistan Region, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited settlements. Characterized by its distinctive architecture and narrow alleyways, the Citadel reflects a history shaped by various civilizations. With influences from Assyrian, Babylonian, and Persian eras, the Citadel serves as a symbol of Erbil's rich cultural heritage. Recent restoration efforts highlight its significance, drawing visitors seeking to explore the historical and archaeological treasures encapsulated within this ancient fortress.

The Korek Mountain Resort & Spa By Hama Khafur

Korek Mountain, also known as Korek Mountain Resort, is a popular tourist destination located in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The mountain is part of the Zagros mountain range and offers stunning natural landscapes and panoramic views.  Key features of Korek Mountain include a cable car ride that takes visitors to the summit, where they can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The area is known for its cool climate, making it a popular retreat during the summer months.  The resort on Korek Mountain offers various recreational activities, including hiking, zip-lining, and dining options. It has become a notable destination for both local and international tourists seeking outdoor adventures and a serene mountain getaway. 

Dwin Castle

Dwin Castle is said to have been owned by Jalaluddin, the grandfather of the renowned Saladin, also known as Salah al-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub. Saladin, the Muslim sultan of Egypt and Syria, gained fame for defeating a large Crusader army at the Battle of Hattin and capturing Jerusalem in 1187. 

Khanzad Castle

Located 22 kilometers from Erbil along the road to Shaqlawa, was built during the 16th century under the Soran Emirate. Princess Khanzad and her brother Prince Suleiman Beg oversaw its construction. Standing about 40 meters tall on a slight elevation, the citadel has preserved its original form, featuring four circular towers at each corner. Crafted from stones and gypsum, the castle stands as a remarkable archaeological site.

Prophet Nahum's tomb

Nahum, a minor prophet, delivered his prophecy documented in the Hebrew Bible or Old Testament. Positioned chronologically between Micah and Habakkuk, his writings focus on the downfall of the Assyrian Empire and its capital, Nineveh, conveyed with vivid poetic flair.

Despite being a fervent Hebrew nationalist, Nahum, known as "the Elkoshite," lived harmoniously among the Elkoshites. As the seventh Minor Prophet, he expressed a patriotic sentiment in his prophecies.

Regarding Nahum's personal life, limited information is available. His name, signifying "comforter," links him to the town of Alqosh, which scholars widely associate with the contemporary Alqosh in northern Iraq, as mentioned in Nahum 1:1.

Rabban Hormozid Monastery

This revered religious site stands as a cornerstone in Kurdistan, an ancient monastery belonging to the Chaldean Church. Carved into the mountains, approximately two miles from Algosh, it dates back to around 640 A.D. Originally established as the official residence for the patriarchs of the Eliya line of the Church of the East from 1551 until the 18th century, the monastery gained prominence as a key institution of the Chaldean Church following its union with Rome in the early 19th century. Explore the rich history and spiritual significance of this monumental site on our tourism website. 

Choli Minaret

Discover the allure of Choli Minaret, a renowned Erbil landmark from the 12th century Atabag period. Originally part of a Mosque commissioned by Sultan Muddaffarudeen, this site's foundation was uncovered during 1960-1980 excavations, showcasing burnt bricks and tiles imported from Egypt, linking Kurdistan to a rich antiquity. Unveil the echoes of history in this ancient treasure, a must-visit for those captivated by cultural intersections and architectural marvels.  

Rewandiz

Also known as Rawandiz, is situated in the Erbil Governorate within the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Nestled in the Soran district, it's strategically located near the borders of Iran and Turkey. Merely 7km from Soran city center and positioned 10km east of the captivating Bekhal Waterfall, Rewandiz is approximately 123km from Erbil. Surrounded by the Zagros mountain range, with Korek Mountain to the south, Hindren Mountain to the north, Zozik Mountain to the west, and Bradasot Mountain to the east, Rewandiz offers a picturesque setting. Primarily inhabited by Kurds, this city provides a unique blend of cultural richness against the backdrop of stunning natural landscapes.

Rawanduz – The deepest gorge in the Middle East 

Surrounded by majestic mountains, Rawanduz is home to the deepest gorge in the Middle East. The city’s history dates back to the seventh century BC and boasts several Christian villages and archaeological sites

Marmattai monastery

Situated 20 kilometers from Mosul on Mount Alfaf, this establishment, founded in the 4th century between 361-363 AD, has roots tied to a Monk seeking refuge from persecution in Diyarbakir. The refuge was sought during the reign of the Roman Emperor Julian the Apostate, who, in addition to being a notable philosopher and author, gained infamy for his rejection and persecution of Christianity. This historical figure is remembered as Julian the Apostate in Christian tradition. The site holds significance as a testament to the monk's escape and the complex historical context during Julian's rule.

Shrine of Raban Boya in Shaqlawa 

Overlooking the valley of Safeen Mountain, the shrine, which used to be a simple mountain hermitage at the beginning, is now a high place for pilgrimage, especially for women, both Christian and Muslim, who appeal to Saint Boya to grant their fertility wishes. Nowadays, the path has been fixed up on the first half of the way so that pilgrims and visitors can make their way more easily, but when strolling on the second half on the path, one can still feel the truly basic and rudimentary way of life in the first times of Christianity in Shaqlawa and of Raban Boya’s hermit life.

Lalish

Lalish is a sacred religious site for the Yazidi community, an ethno-religious group with a unique faith system. Located in the Shekhan District of the Nineveh Governorate in northern Iraq, Lalish is considered the holiest temple and the spiritual center of the Yazidi religion. The complex includes the shrine of Sheikh Adi ibn Musafir, a revered Yazidi saint, and Lalish serves as a destination for religious pilgrimages.  Yazidism is an ancient religion with roots in Mesopotamian traditions, and Lalish is a focal point for religious ceremonies and festivals for the Yazidi people. The site holds cultural and historical significance, attracting Yazidi pilgrims and visitors seeking to explore the rich heritage of this religious minority. The community faced persecution and displacement, particularly during the conflicts in Iraq, but Lalish remains a symbol of resilience and continuity for the Yazidi faith.

Erbil Zoo