Erbil Governorate

محافظة أربيل Essentials

Erbil Governorate contains some of the world's oldest continuously inhabited sites, centered around the UNESCO-listed Citadel of Erbil. The region's history spans from the prehistoric Neanderthal remains at Shanidar Cave to medieval fortifications like Khanzad and Dwin castles. Modern Erbil offers a contrast with extensive green spaces like Minaret Park, home to the 12th-century Choli Minaret, and large-scale commercial centers including Family Mall and Royal Mall.

محافظة أربيل Essentials — Map

Sarchia Khursheed / CC BY-SA 4.0

A

Citadel of Erbil

This UNESCO World Heritage site is an ancient tell or occupational mound in the historical center of Erbil. It is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world, with archaeological evidence dating back to the 5th millennium BC.

B

Citadel of Erbil

The fortified settlement sits atop a 32-meter-high mound. Its current architectural character dates largely to the Ottoman period, featuring traditional courtyard houses and a perimeter wall that historically served as a defensive barrier.

Tim Evanson / CC BY-SA 2.0

C

Shanadar cave

Shanidar Cave is an archaeological site located on Bradost Mountain in the Erbil Governorate of Kurdistan Region in northern Iraq.

Myararat83 / CC BY-SA 3.0

D

Mzgawti Xanaqa

An ancient mosque and Khalidiyya Sufi lodge located in the heart of the city. It serves as a significant religious and historical landmark situated opposite the main city square.

James (Jim) Gordon / CC BY 2.0

E

Minaret Park

Erbil, also called Hawler and known in ancient history as Arbela, is the capital and most populated city in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Jeffrey Beall / CC BY 3.0

F

Erbil International (EBL)

Erbil International Airport, is the main airport of the city of Erbil in the Kurdistan Region, Iraq.

G

Erbil International Airport

The primary international gateway to the Kurdistan Region, featuring one of the longest runways in the world at 4,800 meters.

H

Khanzad (Banaman) Citadel

A 16th-century stone fortress located on the road between Erbil and Shaqlawa. It was built during the Soran Emirate period, likely under the rule of Princess Khanzad.

I

Dwin Castle

Historical ruins of a castle associated with the family of Saladin. It is situated on a hillside north of Erbil, offering views of the surrounding mountainous terrain.

J

Bshar

Castle

K

Hay Shurta roundabout

Castle

L

Koya citadel

A 19th-century Ottoman-era fortress located in the town of Koya. Historically, it served as a military barracks and administrative center for the region.

M

Lwlany

Castle

N

h akoy

Castle

O

San

Castle

P

Aran

Castle

Q

Tablo Mall

A multi-story shopping center in Erbil featuring a variety of retail stores, a supermarket, and a food court.

R

Royal mall

A modern shopping destination featuring international brands, a cinema complex, and recreational facilities located near the city center.

S

Family Mall

One of the largest shopping malls in Erbil, connected to the Family Fun amusement park. It houses numerous international retail brands and a hypermarket.

Other Lists

Scenic Viewpoints and Hills Notable Mosques and Islamic Sites Historic Fortifications and Castles Natural Wonders