Erbil Citadel: An Ancient History and Amazing Facts
Erbil Citadel, located in the center of the Iraqi city of Erbil, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 6th millennium BC. The Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites in the Middle East.
The history of Erbil Citadel is closely linked with the ancient city of Arbela, which was founded in the 6th millennium BC. In the 4th century BC, the city was conquered by Alexander the Great and became part of the Seleucid Empire. During this period, the city was known as Arbela and was an important trading center.
In the early Islamic period, the city was known as Arbela and was part of the Abbasid Caliphate. During this period, the city was an important center of Islamic learning and culture. In the 12th century, Erbil Citadel was conquered by the Seljuk Turks and became part of the Seljuk Empire.
Erbil Citadel is an impressive fortress that is situated on a hill overlooking the city. The Citadel is surrounded by walls that are over 10 meters high and have a circumference of approximately 2.5 kilometers. The walls are made of mud brick and have been reinforced with stone and brick in more recent times.
The Citadel is home to several monuments and buildings from different periods of its history. The most impressive of these is the Citadel Mosque, which was built in the 11th century and is one of the oldest mosques in Iraq. Other important monuments include the Grand Mosque, the Great Mosque, and the Al-Jami Mosque.
Inside the Citadel, visitors can explore the many archaeological sites that have been uncovered over the years. These include the remains of the ancient city of Arbela, as well as the ruins of the Seljuk and Abbasid period. Visitors can also explore the Citadel’s many galleries and museums, which contain a wide range of artifacts from different eras.
In addition to exploring the Citadel’s archaeological sites, visitors can also take part in a range of activities. These include visiting the Citadel’s many markets, which sell a variety of local and international products. Visitors can also take part in guided tours of the Citadel, which are available in both English and Arabic.
Erbil Citadel is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Iraq. The site is a great place to explore and learn about the country’s rich past, as well as its present-day culture. Visitors can also enjoy a range of activities and attractions, such as shopping, dining, and sightseeing.